Change at South London Rugby – What’s New and Why It Matters

Things are always moving at South London Rugby. New coaches walk in, fixtures shift, players switch shirts, and the club tweaks its training plan. All of these changes shape the experience for players, supporters and anyone who loves the game. This page pulls together the biggest recent changes so you can see what’s happening right now.

Coaching and Training Updates

Last month we brought in a new backs coach who used to work with a Premiership side. He’s focused on faster ball movement and sharper defensive patterns. The first training session already showed a quicker pace – players are sprinting more, and the drill count has gone up. If you’re new to the club, expect a little extra fitness work in the first weeks. The senior coach also introduced a video review night every Thursday. That means you’ll see match footage on the club’s social feeds and get a chance to ask questions.

For members who train on Tuesdays, the gym schedule has been reshuffled. There are now two strength sessions a week instead of one, plus a mobility class on Saturdays. The idea is to keep injuries down and help players stay strong through a busy season.

Fixture Changes and New Competitions

Because of a postponement earlier in the year, the league has shuffled a few match dates. Our home game against Croydon RFC is now set for the first Saturday of October instead of September. The early kickoff means you’ll see a cooler pitch and a different crowd vibe – families tend to arrive earlier for weekend matches.

We’ve also entered a regional sevens tournament in November. That’s a fast‑paced version of the game with seven players per side. It’s a chance for our younger squad members to get extra minutes on the field and for fans to enjoy a festival atmosphere. The club will run a ticket lottery; keep an eye on the announcements if you want a spot.

Player Movement – Who’s In, Who’s Out

Two senior forwards have announced they’re hanging up their boots at the end of the season. Their experience will stay on the pitch through coaching roles, so the team won’t lose their knowledge completely. In their place, the club has signed a promising lock from a university side. He’s 21, tall, and already showing good line‑out skills.

On the women’s side, a former university captain has joined the squad. She brings a strong leadership style and a fresh perspective on attacking strategies. Expect the women’s team to try new set pieces in the upcoming fixtures.

What Change Means for You

If you’re a player, the new coaching approach means you’ll train harder but also get clearer feedback. The extra strength sessions should help you stay fit longer, and the video reviews give you a chance to understand the game better.

If you’re a fan, the fixture shuffle means you might need to adjust your calendar, but the new sevens tournament promises a fun, family‑friendly day out. Keep an eye on the club’s email and social posts for ticket details.

For members and volunteers, the changes in staff and player roster open up new opportunities to get involved – coaching clinics, mentorship programs, and community events are all on the table.

Change can feel sudden, but at South London Rugby it’s all aimed at making the club stronger, more exciting, and more inclusive. Stay tuned, keep showing up, and you’ll see how every tweak adds up to a better experience for everyone.