Stourbridge/Worcester Warriors Merger
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Topic: Stourbridge/Worcester Warriors Merger
Posted By: Iamok123
Subject: Stourbridge/Worcester Warriors Merger
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 12:12
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I read this morning that it's looking increasingly like that Wasps will take over playing at Sixways and that Stourbridge/Warriors will merge into a new entity 'Sixways Rugby' Following this on the Stour fb page - Proposal for Commercial Investment in Stourbridge RFC Player Development & Infrastructure. You will no doubt be aware that the current season has proved to be difficult for all senior playing sections of the club. From Colts through to our senior men’s and ladies' teams we have regrettably had to cancel fixtures due to being unable to field a full side, which is unprecedented at our club. Notwithstanding the difficulties faced in senior Rugby, we have some bright spots on the near horizon including the reintegration of the Lions, the May Corporate Lunch (with a trio of excellent speakers), and our Stour Music Fest. In addition, our Mini and Juniors continue to flourish and prosper through a dedicated team of volunteers, with many of our M&Js and Girls players stepping up to play at the representative level. Our commercial off-field endeavours continue at a pace and we have a sound financial footing that exceeds our expectations, the club is, financially, in a very good place (Financial General Meeting coming shortly). This is despite the current economic difficulties. We can all agree that we have one of the best rugby facilities in the West Midlands conurbation. However, the difficulty we face is that we have not always historically benefited from a flow of young players into the club. Few of the secondary schools that surround us play rugby as their primary sport, or indeed at all. Although Old Swinford is a rugby and cricket school, many of their ‘elite’ rugby players circumnavigate Stourbridge and have opted for alternative Premiership Academies. Overall, community rugby has suffered nationally post-pandemic, and, with the odd exception, player numbers are down across the country. It is our strong belief that to build rugby back better and stronger post-pandemic, it is essential to focus on community rugby development and building cohesive and long-standing partnerships with all in the rugby community. Our First XV has always exceeded expectations and has sat comfortably in the top 4 levels of the National Leagues for over 20 years. However, this season following league re-organization and continuing to deal with the fallout of the pandemic, following a top-four finish last year, we now sit at the bottom of National Two South West, 13 points adrift. We have, as a club, been dramatically affected by the demise of the fully professional senior teams in the region, Wasps and Warriors. Previously, we had a long-term symbiotic relationship with them both which last year alone resulted in ten players (Alfie Bell, Tobi Wilson, Noel Heward, Finn Thomas, Greg Fisilau, Tom Bacon, Kofi Cripps, Pietro Turrisi, Emanual Feyi-Waboso, Seb Atkinson) playing regularly in Stourbridge colours. Unfortunately, these players are now no longer available, and the majority are all now playing at either Championship or Premiership level for other clubs. We have also had an unprecedented injury crisis with both our fly halves breaking their legs in the first 5 weeks of the season and a myriad of injuries followed during the winter months. A similar story can be told with the Panthers whose numbers have been depleted mainly through injury since their promotion last season. The Colts have struggled at times despite the best efforts of a dedicated management and coaching team, with some players having played a full school game the previous day. The Lions, who (pending RFU approval) will become a fully integrated part of the main club next season have also suffered with player numbers. Despite a resurgence and some former players coming back into the fold to add to their core player base, they have struggled to mount a competitive campaign. This has not been helped by our collective struggle for player recruitment at all levels. In December 2022 our director of rugby Neil Mitchell reached out to Leigh Hinton, now one of the lead rugby agents in the UK. Neil was Leigh's mentor in his Moseley playing days and he sought his advice to try and recruit players in the areas where we were depleted. During the interchange, Leigh put Neil in touch with James Sandford who is part of the Atlas Group and now owns Sixways. Both James and Jim O’Toole, a former Director of both Warriors and London Irish, kindly advised Neil as to various players who may be available, and they began engaging in a wider dialogue regarding our playing infrastructure and current player deficiencies. These discussions have been ongoing and following the successful appointment of Atlas Group as the new owners of Sixways both respective Committees’ representatives have met with a view to Atlas supporting Stourbridge Rugby Club commercially not only at the First XV level but throughout the player membership with Stourbridge remaining firmly a member’s owned club. It is our view that following an open forum with our members, a formal agreement can be established to secure Stourbridge Rugby Clubs' long-term future, from the M&J’s through to the First XV. Atlas Group is proposing a long-term investment into our playing infrastructure to enable our teams to play competitively at all levels, to grow our club to becoming a Championship Level Club (and beyond) to provide a pathway to senior competitive rugby for all, to provide additional player support for players to cascade at all levels in the men’s and women’s game. This investment will look to provide additional coaching at all levels, assist in strengthening our volunteer coaches, and grow the community-centered game which is the heartbeat of rugby in this country. We believe that this investment ensures the longevity of rugby at Stourton Park for generations to come. We will be holding a Special General Meeting shortly to present the proposal to our membership, however, an informal meeting will be held at Stourton Park at 7pm on Friday the 10th of February 2023, to answer any questions our members may have, as the timings to advance this potential arrangement is time crucial, which we will elaborate on in more detail. Please note, given the significance of this proposed investment into our Club, this will attract significant national interest. May I take this opportunity to assure the membership that the proposals being put forward can only be agreed upon following the full consultation and consent of Stourbridge Rugby Club membership at a proposed SGM where full proposals and outlines will be provided with adequate time for the club to fully consider the proposals. This is an unprecedented opportunity to put SRFC firmly on the map as a leader in rugby development in the Midlands for the foreseeable future and I hope that you will be as enthusiastic as we are in the potential of embarking on a journey that will secure rugby for many generations to come at Stourton Park. Richard Baron Club President Stourbridge Rugby Football Club |
Replies:
Posted By: tulip
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 13:35
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Can’t see the members passing this at SGM It will no longer be Stourbridge rugby club
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Posted By: FHLH
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 13:42
I suspect all Worcester/Atlas want in a Level 4/5 start rather than Level 12 It's a sad day if this does go ahead facilitated by the bad managemt of Warriors Are we too cynical on this Forum or are we just those who love rugby in all its guises? ------------- "My father told me big men fall just as quick as little ones, if you put a sword through their hearts." |
tulip wrote:Posted By: Ste Vo
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 13:55
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What a mess.
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Posted By: sedgley dave
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 14:34
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What an admission to have to make, that the club's success (which is undeniable) has been largely due to the scraps fed from the Premiership table, or a symbiotic relationship, whichever metaphor you prefer. Well, Hull did it, following the merger which led to Hull Ionians. The leftovers rose from the ashes(!) This is such a despairing statement by President Baron, 'schools don't play, players circumvent us, etc.' I would have thought a pleasant country location, near a huge conurbation and lots of smaller towns, is precisely the sort of area where a level 3 or 4 club could thrive.
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Posted By: Iamok123
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 14:35
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According to Jim O Toole the new Sixways team will play from Sixways stadium leaving Stourbridge Lions at Stourton Park. So yes , essentially they are just buying their place instead of starting at level 10. Also commented that Stourbridges remaining games this season will also be played in Worcester. Still, it's all down to the member vote. I'd imagine Stourton Park turning into a new build housing estate within 5 years if this goes through.
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Posted By: Ste Vo
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 14:35
| It arguably has thrived for several decades. Wonder what's changed? |
Posted By: Ste Vo
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 14:36
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Can you see Stour's membership voting for this? Unless there are details not yet in the public domain.....turkey. Christmas.
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Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 14:58
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They may be hidden in plain sight. The RFU have a floating charge over Stourton Park, taken out in 2018 presumably for the new 3g pitch. ------------- Sweeney Delenda Est |
Posted By: Sid James
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 15:00
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[QUOTE=sedgley dave Well, Hull did it, following the merger which led to Hull Ionians. The leftovers rose from the ashes(!) Sedgley Dave, Could you explain that comment please. While you are doing so could you please remember that Hull Ionians RUFC and Hull RUFC are completely different Clubs who are both the result of completely different mergers. Thank you.
------------- All Knwoing All Seeing |
Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 15:11
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You are lost in a maze of twisty mergers and eaten by a grue. ------------- Sweeney Delenda Est |
Posted By: sedgley dave
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 16:53
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Sid My understanding was that the old Hull & East Riding club merged with junior old boys' club Ionians, and moved out of the city. Meanwhile those left behind soldiered on, rose through the leagues, and eventually caught up with Ionians. If that is incorrect, I apologise to all concerned.
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Posted By: Richard Lowther
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 17:01
The original Hull and East Riding merged with Ionians to form Hull Ionians. However some of the Hull and ER members didn't agree with the merger, reformed the club and later merged with Hymerians to form the present Hull RUFC. ------------- Moderator http://www.leaguerugby.co.uk" rel="nofollow - National League Rugby Message Boards Remember Wakefield RFC |
Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 17:41
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Yes, but I believe Ionians was a splinter and Hull and ER was a merger - and the original club plays 13 man rugby. ------------- Sweeney Delenda Est |
Posted By: SurreyRugby
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 17:54
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Richard is correct. Coming from Hull, Hull&ER vacated the circle to move to Ionians ground in the West of Hull. The Council then built Hull Citys new stadium on the Cirle land. Hull CC also played there. Old Hymerians were a total seperate club and, as said, reformed to make HULL RUFC. Nothing to do with Rugby League. Cheers |
Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 18:05
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Anyway, back on topic, Stourbridge need to play Leicester, Dings and Redruth. The transfer deadline is the 17th. Unless they go for expedited registration forms need to be in seven days before registration. Stourbridge will not hold their SGM until Friday. I cannot se how Atlas can bring in enough players in time. ------------- Sweeney Delenda Est |
Posted By: SurreyRugby
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 18:19
| Perhaps the new Atlas Warriors Stourbride merger will be happy at level 5 next season, and its in their plan |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 18:43
| Probably enough "Free agents" after the Worcs/Wasps debacle who could be signed (presumably at a premium rate) thus Transfer deadline irrelevant. I can't believe it's in the Atlas plan to drop to Level 5 - just adds another year to the "project" |
Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 19:40
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Have Worcester got any players left to push into Stourbridge? As said the transfer deadline is 17th Feb which gives them 9 days to find and persuade (pay over the odds). Banish Worcester to the bottom of the pyramid where they belong. If this goes through Wasps might buy Coventry to avoid starting at the bottom  ------------- RAID ON |
Posted By: Ste Vo
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 19:41
It’s better than any alternative open to them. Championship but run indefinitely by the RFU? Invest in Worcester RFC at level 6. Start again at level 10. Or, Stourbridge option at level 4, probably 5. |
Posted By: Sid James
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 21:55
In 1989, 'the' Hull & East Riding RUFC merged with Ionians RUFC to form Hull Ionians RUFC and brought all of the history of the Club with them. Those Hull & ER members, who didn't agree with the merger, formed a new rugby Club called 'Hull & East Riding 1989'. After a couple of seasons in the lower Yorkshire leagues (hardly 'soldiering on') this new Club merged with Old Hymerians to become Hull RUFC. They were quite ridiculous to not stay with the original Club and then negotiate a different merger 2 seasons later. Selfish really.
------------- All Knwoing All Seeing |
Posted By: Sid James
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 21:59
Totally wrong Camquin. ------------- All Knwoing All Seeing |
Posted By: tulip
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 22:22
| Anybody know whether the Atlas Group have bought Sixways and hopefully paid the going price for a Premiership rugby stadium hopefully to benefit the Creditors. |
Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 09 Feb 2023 at 23:27
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Well, Hull Ionians claim Hull and ER arose in the 1890s as a break away from one of Hull FC or HKR FC (but do not know which) and that is where the red and white (at the time apparently both wore red and white) comes from. And Ionians (blue and green) were a break away from Old Hymerians. And H&ER also merged with Hull Spartans and then there was a merger and a breakaway. And at that point I was confused. ------------- Sweeney Delenda Est |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 09:12
According to a post by Steve Diamond I saw quoted the answer seems to be no................. Goodbye Warriors. My thoughts RIP Worcester Warriors. RIP Duckworth legacy.
RIP Warriors supporters. RIP Rugby Creditors, RIP Stourbridge RFC. RIP.Elite Rugby The Staff,Players & suppliers have been shafted. “Frying pan into 🔥” Rings a bell. |
Posted By: Redted
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 09:35
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So the plan is for Stourbridge and Wasps to play at Sixways and the Stourbridge ground with its RFU funded 3G pitch to only be used for junior rugby. Stourbridge members if they have any bottle should tell them to get stuffed. Stourbridge, Wasps, Sixways Rugby perhaps they deserve each other. If this goes ahead it will all end in tears with yet more people owed money and Sixways being sold off for building. Who would pay money to watch either team at Sixways?
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Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 10:43
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They will have the Lions playing in the Counties league. Only two division below where Stourbridge will be next season. ------------- Sweeney Delenda Est |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 10:55
| Spot on Red Ted - Camquin, not sure there won't be an attempt to "rescue" Stour (sorry New Worcester) from relegation to Level 5 thus saving themselves a year of getting back to Level 2 or 1 as described in their plan |
Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 11:02
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That would be why it has to happen now. It does mean players can be registered before the Transfer deadline. But where would you find enough players capable of turning them around. To survive, they need to beat at least one of Redruth, Dings or Leicester Lions - so you need a National 1 level team ------------- Sweeney Delenda Est |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 11:54
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Whatever happens - for the sake of the game New Worcester need to be relegated! Worst case scenario - Let's assume they recruit some big names and win every game with maximum points which would see them end up on 50 Newport would then need to claim 23 points from their remaining 9 games Barnstaple 25 from 9, Bournville 28 from 9 to finish above them We need two of those clubs to achieve those numbers to ensure it happens! I'm sure much will become clearer after New Worcester have visited Newport next Saturday, the day after the transfer deadline I would be absolutely gutted if my club went down as a result of these shenanigans
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Posted By: SurreyRugby
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 13:03
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I agree Thatbloke. It seems from the podcast, the Atlas Group are saying 'deal done', but the Stourbridge communication is saying there needs to be an internal memebers vote. So.....it appears 'deal not done'. The new owner of Atlas says transparency is key. Im my mind, he does not come over as honest and credible! Worcester Warriors in their current form owes creditors in excess of £5m. I am guessing that one of the stipulations of the RFU to enter the Championship was to pay its creditors. Im afraid, this is what unscrupulous companies do when they are broke. They reform under a new name, they are allowed to write off current debts and start again fresh, with a clean slate. I hope the Stourbridge membership do not fall for the 'story'. I say go down to level 5 with honour and rebuild your club. Perhasps go to level 6 before the rebuild. Stourbridge is a great club with great facilities. See the Worcester bid off, and move on. |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 13:21
| Thank you Surrey Rugby - I suppose I may come across as highly emotive on this issue but that is because my club could well be affected by this travesty. It is comforting to hear that there is abhorrence at the suggestions across the wider geographic rugby community. Surely the Stour membership must see they are merely being used by Atlas as a convenient tool to achieve their questionable objectives. It will be the end of their club full stop |
Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 13:47
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In an ideal world, I am sure Stourbridge would not want this. But if they don't take it, they still need to pay the RFU for the pitch. The members could turn round tonight and say, we will stick our hands in our pockets and not take the Atlas money. ------------- Sweeney Delenda Est |
Posted By: Runitback
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 13:53
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This is NOT a merger .. this is a takeover and a shabby one at that. I hope Stourbridge laugh this off and Sixways rugby start at the very bottom as they should . . . I think even the RFU wont sanction this!!! Thatbloke you ever reason to feel infuriated! ------------- Run with it |
Posted By: Remember Izal
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 14:16
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It’s a long time since I posted anything on here but this whole business with Stourbridge and Six ways infuriates me. Stourbridge have been a competing club for years and always made out that they have a healthy playing budget etc. It’s obvious that their model of loaning in players and loaning them out was floored and I have witnessed big defeats at the end of the season where they have run out of players. The point is why o why didn’t they invest at least some of that money in player development at youth level. Look at Wharfedale ,Tynedale ,Preston Harrogate all in that league with decent junior set ups and also second teams etc. They divorced their first team from the rest of the club by creating another club. All of the teams with only one team watch out ithis could happen to you. You reap what you sow
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Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 14:17
| The more I see of O'Toole (I would suggest dropping the O' and the "e") and now Sandford on TV the more they come across as very similar cowboys as the previous owners, just from a different ranch. The RFU have already confirmed they didn't meet the "fit and proper" criteria (yet Diamond's group did) to allow them to enter the Championship so now this shambolic attempt to put two fingers up to the governing body. For God's sake RFU - Step in and do something!! |
Posted By: islander
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 14:37
Stourbridge have confirmed that members won't be voting on anything tonight... https://www.stourbridgerugby.com/news/club-members-meeting-reminder-details-2760187.html" rel="nofollow - LINK
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Posted By: WEvans
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 14:54
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Those that continue to act against the best interests of Stourbridge Rugby Club as a whole won't want a vote until they can ensure the result they want. |
Posted By: SurreyRugby
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 16:05
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OToole (TOOL) uses the word transparent all the time! Its the stuff he isnt telling anyone is the worry! Anyway, Im looking forward to tomorrow's game Worthing Vs Dorking. There will be no takeovers of either club! Both great clubs with great traditions! Good luck Dorking, the faithfull are all behind you! |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 16:17
| Seems Gloucester are owed £750k from the Wuss club, if they were to demand their money and let the RFU know, that could scupper any money fleecing deal going ahead I would have thought? |
Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 16:34
Presumably that is from the game at Kingsholm bring cancellation the last minute? As this is a rugby debt I would presume the RFU will insist on it being paid before Worcester play another game in any disguise, ------------- RAID ON |
Posted By: Fudgepacker
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 16:58
Me too Chris. It would be a travesty for whichever club is relegated as a result of mercenaries being parachuted in due to a sordid deal.
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Posted By: islander
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 17:16
| Apparently (Worcester News) the deadline to sign new players is a week today, so any attempt to strengthen Stour squad would need to happen prior to then... |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 17:19
| True for any transfers or loan deals but not applicable to any "free agents" who may still be milling around from the Worcs and Wasps fallout |
Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 17:39
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Only the following may be registered after the deadline: 1. Players who have not been registered with a club this season. 2 England Academy Player - of which you are permitted 4. 3. Players who have been loaned out from the club and are coming home 4. Youths that have just turned 17 - and are being registered for the first time 5. Front row forwards required to meet minimum numbers 6. Players with a student or service pass 7. Players who could not be registered due to a dispute. Just being a free agent does not seem to be enough. ------------- Sweeney Delenda Est |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 17:50
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Ok Camquin - thanks for the clarification. Would love to be a fly-on-the-wall at that meeting tonight. I see that the "membership" includes those at Lions who might be tempted to support the proposal just to get rid of their adverseries and have the superb facilities all to themselves?? Ps I know there's no vote or decision this evening
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Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 20:31
No vote or decision = no real point in the meeting. Does this mean everything has been decided and the meeting ie merely being held to keep the Stourbridge members updated? ------------- RAID ON |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 20:55
| Just to gauge "feelings" apparently |
Posted By: Ste Vo
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 21:06
| When’s the vote? |
Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 21:34
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At the SGM, which will be in a couple of weeks, according to the Stourbridge site. I presume it needs formal notice. ------------- Sweeney Delenda Est |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 21:38
| So after the registration date cut off? |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2023 at 22:19
| Doesn't stop New Worcester from funding some players as a "sweetener" |
Posted By: FHLH
Date Posted: 11 Feb 2023 at 00:19
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... and the there's Worcester RFC (see links in Clubhouse Chat) who are not best pleased as no one has spoken to them even after asking for discussion. I know 200m away is a long way in RFU parlance.... More and more coming out about this - even RFU taking a stand against Atlas see Clubhouse Chat threadl ------------- "My father told me big men fall just as quick as little ones, if you put a sword through their hearts." |
Posted By: Kimbo
Date Posted: 11 Feb 2023 at 09:30
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Yeah, W***s at least had the decency to park themselves four miles from Cov RFC. Pah... ------------- Our Club |
Posted By: FHLH
Date Posted: 11 Feb 2023 at 11:41
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https://worcesterrfc.rfu.club/news/update-on-the-atlas-stourbridge-rfc-proposal" rel="nofollow - Worcester RFC comment
https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/rugby/worcester-warriors-sixways-rugby-atlas-consortium-b1059167.html" rel="nofollow - https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/rugby/worcester-warriors-sixways-rugby-atlas-consortium-b1059167.html" rel="nofollow - Spanner in the works ------------- "My father told me big men fall just as quick as little ones, if you put a sword through their hearts." |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 11 Feb 2023 at 12:37
| I sincerely hope so!! |
Posted By: Iamok123
Date Posted: 11 Feb 2023 at 16:40
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I hear rumours that the members last night were massively against the proposal... as expected. |
Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 12 Feb 2023 at 10:21
Just read a post somewhere which indicates the vast majority were in favour ------------- RAID ON |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 12 Feb 2023 at 10:22
| Yep Raider - the Turkeys look like they're going to vote for Christmas! |
Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 12 Feb 2023 at 10:24
My thoughts exactly - blinded by the promise of future riches, forgetting the demise of their club. ------------- RAID ON |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 12 Feb 2023 at 10:31
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And 146 years of history down the pan. Stourton will be a housing estate in 5 years time or less once Atlas have booted out the Lions
There's only one "entity" running that club and it ain't the Management committee!
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Posted By: Ste Vo
Date Posted: 12 Feb 2023 at 12:22
Is it possible the post from the club today is simply untrue?
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Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 12 Feb 2023 at 12:38
| I think it most probably is true but until they have their SGM and official vote we won't know |
Posted By: Iamok123
Date Posted: 12 Feb 2023 at 15:41
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https://www.blackcountryradio.co.uk/radioplayer/od/items/black-country-sport-11th-february/" rel="nofollow - https://www.blackcountryradio.co.uk/radioplayer/od/items/black-country-sport-11th-february/ Starts at 10mins
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Posted By: Robb
Date Posted: 12 Feb 2023 at 16:30
Aylesford Bulls Ladies had the same issue. I could see as soon as Harlequins started getting involved, they would eventually take over and kill the smaller club's legacy as if they never existed. Oh it started promising by saying they'd share matches between Aylesford and the Stoop. But all of a sudden it was consolidated at Surrey, Aylesford then started wearing Quins colours and badge. When they won the last women's premiership they were still the Bulls (in Quins colours and the Bull on their arm) in name only. The next season, they fully became Harlequins and Aylesford Bulls Ladies were treated as if they never existed. This would be history repeating itself. Stourbridge would lose everything that made their historic club what it is in exchange for the meagre remaining riches of the fallen Premiership club trying to buy their way back into the league system at a slightly higher level than they should have started at.
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Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 12 Feb 2023 at 16:37
| Another spot on post Robb |
Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 12 Feb 2023 at 18:18
I quite agree - shameful bending of the rules you the RFU. If I was Richmond,London Welsh etc etc I would be asking questions ------------- RAID ON |
Posted By: yorkshirestour
Date Posted: 13 Feb 2023 at 15:52
Never believe a rumour
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Posted By: Thunderbird
Date Posted: 13 Feb 2023 at 15:56
| They will neede too be registering players pretty quickly if they want to avoid playing at level 5 .The deadline is this Friday at noon. |
Posted By: One For The Ditch
Date Posted: 14 Feb 2023 at 10:41
| Mitchell has been ringing round contracted players some of whom I know are playing in leagues well above Stourbridge. |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 14 Feb 2023 at 10:48
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Well I hope they all tell him to "Do one!" It's not rocket science to suggest he has been promised a big role at New Worcester if he can keep them at Level 4 (allegedly) Interesting that the proposal is being sold as "an opportunity" to develop their players and here's me thinking they didn't have any!!
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 14 Feb 2023 at 17:12
Is that allowed?
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Posted By: One For The Ditch
Date Posted: 14 Feb 2023 at 17:24
I don't know.
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Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 14 Feb 2023 at 20:16
Doubtful, but would the RFU do anything about it? ------------- RAID ON |
Posted By: Robb
Date Posted: 14 Feb 2023 at 20:51
The only thing I can think is the Medway decision where Medway complained to the RFU that they had players under contract (illegally) and other clubs wanted their players. So there must be something in the RFU regs against poaching or they wouldn't have complained (the fact it backfired on them spectacularly is irrelevant)
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Posted By: WEvans
Date Posted: 15 Feb 2023 at 15:17
Pay the phone bill?
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Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 16 Feb 2023 at 16:47
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With the transfer deadline tomorrow, any rumours of ------------- Sweeney Delenda Est |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 16 Feb 2023 at 17:27
| We know they're trying but don't suppose we'll find out until their team sheet goes in - unless anyone else can shed any light?? |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 16 Feb 2023 at 21:04
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This is on the Stour facebook page Club Members Presentation Sunday 19th Feb at 2pm A Presentation to discuss the Proposal for Commercial Investment in Stourbridge RFC Player Development & Infrastructure. Dear Club Members To ensure we are reaching all sections of our Club, we will be holding a short presentation on Sunday 19th Feb at 2pm regarding the opportunities that have been put forward to Stourbridge RFC. Hopefully, this is also an opportunity for those members who were unable to attend the last meeting and a more suitable time for Parents and Mini and Junior coaches. |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 17 Feb 2023 at 16:05
| Stours twitter has a couple of funny tweets, it might get shut down before long lol. |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 17 Feb 2023 at 21:11
| No sign of a team sheet from Stourbridge, indeed looking at their website, you are hard pushed to find any mention that they have a game this weekend, seems very low profile. |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 17 Feb 2023 at 21:56
| I've got their team sheet Tigerburnie - no evidence of any late signings |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 17 Feb 2023 at 22:27
Just curious after the rumours earlier this week, I feel the Stourbridge players are piggy in the middle here, they cannot be happy with this hanging over them and the fans must have wondered what the heck is happening to them.
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Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 18 Feb 2023 at 08:11
| Looking forward to speaking to their Alikadoos today (Chair, Pres & Sec all at our lunch today) - will report back |
Posted By: Thunderbird
Date Posted: 18 Feb 2023 at 08:33
| Registration closed now. There is a clause somewhere about not being able to for fill fixtures. |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 18 Feb 2023 at 08:57
| We are also the featured match on the Rugby Show this week - probably due to all the furore surrounding Stourbridge |
Posted By: Yogi
Date Posted: 19 Feb 2023 at 16:14
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Hull and East Riding RUFC comments. For the full account of what really happened please read the first couple of paragraphs of the Hull RUFC club history. All will be revealed!! The tenuous Rugby League link was that a few of the the original Hull FC players refused to play for the club when the professional Northern Union was formed in 1895. These gentlemen formed the nucleus of the Hull and East Riding RUFC of 1901. The original Hull FC were formed in 1865. ------------- What's with you Boo-Boo |
Posted By: islander
Date Posted: 23 Feb 2023 at 11:42
| Latest from City AM rugby writer: https://www.cityam.com/england-rugby-chief-to-hold-crunch-talks-with-stourbridge-over-worcester-merger/" rel="nofollow - https://www.cityam.com/england-rugby-chief-to-hold-crunch-talks-with-stourbridge-over-worcester-merger/ |
Posted By: Wigwam
Date Posted: 24 Feb 2023 at 07:40
God help them. ------------- Pace Power Perfection |
Posted By: Sedge Tiger
Date Posted: 24 Feb 2023 at 10:45
Islander/Wigwam Good morning both I just find the whole sorry episode extremely repugnant. It goes against all the best virtues of the game past and present. And to amplify Wigwams point on the arrival of Bill Sweeney. God help them!!!! Good grief. All the best ST ------------- Give him one with handles on |
Posted By: sedgley dave
Date Posted: 24 Feb 2023 at 14:31
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Just to clarify, I assume it's the excerpt below that has rocked your collective boats, rather than the involvement of Sweeney. Though perhaps that, too? I am aware he is not trusted, in some quarters. "As it stands, the consortium [Atlas] will not pay many of the rugby creditors in full, having taken advantage of a legal loophole, although they have said they will set up a hardship fund to ensure some get paid.
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Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 24 Feb 2023 at 17:10
And I always thought that all Rugby debts had to be paid in full - shameful ------------- RAID ON |
Posted By: Senile Said Rick
Date Posted: 01 Mar 2023 at 20:59
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Wow a lot of stuff being said about Dour. Where are we at, I've been hibernating ? ------------- ego have a ingens perturbo snake in meus pardus |
Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2023 at 00:16
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Merging with Stourbridge Lions, assuming the SGM approves. https://www.stourbridgerugby.com/news/stourbridge-rfc-club-members--notice-of-special-general-meeting-2764017.html" rel="nofollow - https://www.stourbridgerugby.com/news/stourbridge-rfc-club-members--notice-of-special-general-meeting-2764017.html ------------- Sweeney Delenda Est |
Posted By: billesleyexile
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2023 at 08:55
Which is obviously a preliminary to the Worcester plans. Difficult one though, because on the face of it I suppose one *could* be for this motion, but not the Worcester stuff. ------------- keep the faith |
Posted By: Thatbloke
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2023 at 09:32
| Message to the proud members of STOURBRIDGE RFC 1876 - don't fall for this promise of a glorious future - plain for all to see - you are being USED!! |
Posted By: billesleyexile
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2023 at 09:37
But, just to be devil's advocate (and I'm certainly not in favour) - hypothetically IF you thought Stourbridge were really on the skids, and IF you were really worried about the Worcester stuff/being used, then slightly counterintuitively a reasonable person could conclude that the best way to protect Stourbridge might be to vote for a merger with Lions. FWIW I would still vote no, but as I said, I can see a reasonable conclusion here that you'd be for a merger with Lions, and against having anything to do with Worcester. The real vote that would sort the sheep from the goats is the yes/no to having anything to do with Worcester. Actually though, now I think about it, aren't there a couple of steps missing here?
------------- keep the faith |
Posted By: billesleyexile
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2023 at 09:41
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Basically between them Worcester and Wasps are potentially directly impacting: Stourbridge Stourbridge Lions Worcester RFC and if I was Moseley or Coventry, I'd be looking suspiciously at Wasps in the Championship making approaches to my squad. what a farce. ------------- keep the faith |
Posted By: Thunderbird
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2023 at 10:20
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So at present Stourbridge are 14 points adrift at the bottom of NAT 2 W so very little change of them not getting relegated to level 5. So is the plan to use special dispensation to atract new players or just change the name so it becomes a completly seperate club. What about the teams at the top of the league below are they going to be restricted as to who goes up , if any?
I was under the impression that the Lions were there to bring on and develope players for the first team, clearly that didn't work. |
Posted By: Robb
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2023 at 11:37
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Stourbridge members, all I will say is 3 words. "Remember Aylesford Ladies". The same thing is going to happen to your club if you vote for this. All your history, all your heritage, all your club's identity will be swept away by an ex-Premiership club's dirty tactics to try and get back to the top in the easiest and cheapest way possible by buying your club. That Item 4 on the Agenda is the most chilling one to me, because it appears to say that it allows the committee to take any further decisions relating to it without consulting the members. At the very least, they have to vote that one down otherwise they lose their right to speak on this forever.
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