Even in the current difficult circumstances, Holt Rugby know that they can rely on their army of voluntary helpers. As a result of their efforts, and the determination of the Committee, the Holt clubhouse was open for business and mini and youth rugby took place on Sunday 6th September.

Holt RFC secured a £500 grant towards our NatWest RugbyForce weekend which coincided with our Youth and Minis returning to rugby that day.

Sunday 6th was the 1st opportunity for all club members and the local community to come together and celebrate the re-opening of our facilities. Holt RFC are following Government Coronavirus guidelines, have completed extensive risk assessments, and held many pre-opening meetings, all to ensure our activities fall within guidelines for the safety and comfort of all the participating kids and accompanying families.

From 10am, games were played on six pitches with thirteen age groups operating in pods of twenty. In total well over a hundred players were involved. At all stages, steps were taken to minimise the risk of infection. At registration, details were taken for track and trace and temperatures of players and supporters checked with head thermometers. A well signposted one-way system was in place for the bar, toilets and access to the pitches.

There were 30 minute gaps between playing sessions; balls were washed every 15 minutes -requiring the provision of three designated dustbins for this sole purpose!

For the spectators the bar was open with bottled drinks and cans served in plastic glasses as well as plentiful supplies of burgers and hot dogs - card only payments.

Youth and Minis Section Chair, Neville Drewry, emphasised that the intention was to make everyone feel confident and comfortable with arrangements going forward, and in that the Club had succeeded. He expressed his appreciation to the more than 20 volunteers who turned out on the day, all helping to make the event a very safe one.

The Y&M returning has created the platform for a return to league rugby for the Seniors, which must await the green light from the English Rugby Union. The Seniors teams continue to train twice weekly, on Tuesday & Thursday evenings and, with every prospect of a competitive season starting in the Autumn, Holt RFC are ready to go.

Report assisted by Martyn Sloman: Press Officer

For more information on joining Holt RFC as a player or volunteer, or to offer your support financially - please contact: Rob Hughes on email: rob.hughes@brown-co.com or tel: 07768 642230 or Nev Drewry on tel 07737 688345 or
email:nev@orangefoxelectrical.co.uk.