As I sit and reflect on the last season of rugby at the camp I’m reminded why I coach .
It’s the people, always the people. I’ve met tremendous people at Portsmouth and have been and continue to feel enormously welcomed. I’m still in awe of the number of volunteers that all do something, either large or small so that 15 blokes (and ladies) can chase an egg shaped bag of wind round a muddy field in the freezing cold.
I’m pleased to have been able to support the development of the players with a number of colts and senior players receiving county call ups this year.
The business end for me is training the team and performances on Saturdays. We’ve been buoyed by some great numbers and engagement at training and some top end performances in home victories against Basingstoke, petersfield and Eastleigh – but if I could bottle one performance it would be away at havant. What performance from the players and a great occasion to be involved in.
Coaches and managers have been planning for next season for some time with priority always to be retaining the playing squad from last year and integrating the colts int to the adult set up. We are seeking to add to the squad but only in positions where we either lack depth or can significantly improve.
Pre season is fast approaching and I’d just like to remind all the players that gym time isn’t mandatory …. But neither is game time. 
Matt
