Firstly, I would like to thank everybody on my election as President of Avon RFC. This is obviously a great honour and a position that I will cherish. It feels like the culmination of 56 years (and counting) of my personal association with our wonderful rugby club. I aim to uphold the traditions of the role and to follow the examples of the great men of Avon who have previously held that title.

Looking back at our history, I discover that I am the 10th different President of Avon, following such illustrious names such as SV Rollerston (1925-1937); IFM Spence (1937-1948); R Preston Jones (1948-1973); Ivor Atkins (1973-1978); Ray Hicks (1978-1998); Ivor Atkins again (1998-1999); Bob Phillips (1999-2003); Fred Kyte (2003-2007); Bill Mutlow (2007-2010); Tony Mutlow (2010-2026).

Now, looking ahead and I guess the point behind this message, I started to wonder what we can all do to help the Club after reaching the milestone of our centenary season last year. I appreciate that everybody’s circumstances, location and commitments are different but there are a few simple and practical ways to potentially assist Avon as we embark upon our next 100 years. Some ideas are suggested below:

• If possible, come along to watch a few matches during the season. It does help the players’ performance with the visible support on the touchline. It’s also a good opportunity to meet up with some old colleagues in the clubhouse for a few beers and banter.
• Help us to find some new players. In common with most other clubs, we are all seeking to attract new recruits. It may be sons or grandsons (incidentally it’s great
to see new youngsters like Olly Mutlow and Joseph Houlihan continuing their family traditions), or perhaps work colleagues, friends in the pub, strangers in the street – we offer a warm welcome to everybody.
• I don’t really want to dwell on the subject of financial support but of course it’s always welcome and there are all sorts of ways to assist the Club financially. These include for example: VIP donations, company sponsored pitch-side boards, individual player sponsorship, etc.
• Volunteer for odd jobs – there are always things to do at the Club, on and off the field.
• Keep in touch – website, Facebook, newsletters, social media, etc.
• Attend social events, reunions, fun days, parties, matches.

Finally, if you have any constructive thoughts or ideas, please pass them on. The bottom line is simply to stay involved in some way or another and to help the Club develop as we meet the challenges ahead.

Best wishes to all during the new season. Nulli Secundus!