As we come to the end of another year, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone connected with Dearne Valley RUFC a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

As a club now in only its third season, there is a huge amount for us all to be proud of in what has already been achieved. On the field, the highlight of the year was undoubtedly being crowned Champions of Counties 4 Yorkshire South and securing promotion in the summer. This success was built on hard work, commitment, and togetherness from players, coaches, and support staff and it underlines the strong foundations that continue to be put in place.

Our partnership with the Dearne Valley Bulldogs continues to go from strength to strength with more and more players crossing codes. This relationship has been key to the growth of both clubs and is playing a major role in building a sustainable rugby community in the Dearne Valley.

Recruitment over the summer was very encouraging and has added depth and competition throughout the squad. Alongside this, there are a number of initiatives currently underway to introduce an Age Grade section to the club. This is a vital step in creating a sustainable pipeline of players for the future and we are hopeful that this work will begin to bear fruit in the New Year.

In Counties 3 Yorkshire, the First XV are beginning to find their feet. The step up in standard has been clear and while results have not always gone our way, performances have shown real progress. We have run several of the top teams close, demonstrating that we are not far off competing consistently at this level. The players and coaches remain fully committed to driving standards higher in the New Year with a clear objective of pushing up the table and achieving a mid-table finish. Our current league position is not a true reflection of the progress being made and there is a strong belief that results will follow.

Another major milestone this season has been the return of the 2nd XV, which has been a key objective for the club. Having already played five times this season, it highlights the growing depth of our playing pool and is a direct reward for both our Bulldogs partnership and recruitment initiatives. For a club in only its third season, this represents significant progress.

Over the summer we also undertook a coaching re-structure, with Steve Mason taking on the role of Director of Rugby, helping to provide leadership and long-term direction on the rugby side of the club. We were also delighted to recruit Luke Hatfield from Barnsley to the coaching team, bringing fresh ideas and valuable experience. Matchday operations have also been strengthened with the support of Gareth Roebuck and Jacob Bradder, whose efforts help ensure everything runs smoothly each week.

Off the field, we have continued to strengthen the club’s structure. I would like to thank Tony McNally, John Smith, and Steve Egbury for joining the Management Committee and giving their time and experience to help guide the club forward. We have also welcomed Jono Keeton and Sophie Whitworth into support roles and their contributions behind the scenes have already been invaluable.

I would also like to congratulate Charlotte Price, our Head of Finance, on being accepted onto the RFU Women in Leadership Programme, as well as on qualifying as a Chartered Accountant. These are fantastic achievements and reflect the quality and professionalism of the people involved in the club.

Looking ahead, don’t miss the Annual Charity Game on 28th December, hosted by our partners the Dearne Valley Bulldogs. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate the season, bringing players, supporters, and the whole community together for a great cause. Enjoy a live singer in the Doghouse to keep the atmosphere lively and the kitchen serving food from the morning. Everyone is welcome and any players who fancy running off some turkey should contact the Bulldogs to get their name on the teamsheet.

We also have some exciting announcements planned for early 2026 including something ICE-cold that we cannot wait to reveal so stay tuned.

Dearne Valley RUFC continues to grow and improve and none of this would be possible without the dedication of our volunteers, coaches, committee members, sponsors, supporters, and families. Your commitment, time, and support are genuinely appreciated and are what make this club so special.

As we look ahead to the New Year, we do so with optimism and ambition. There is a strong spirit around the club and with continued hard work on and off the pitch, I am confident that Dearne Valley RUFC will continue to move forward together.

On behalf of everyone at the club, thank you for your support throughout the year. I hope you all enjoy a well-earned break over the festive period and return refreshed and ready for what promises to be an exciting year ahead.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all.

Ant Hamilton
Chairman