Our 1st XV showed remarkable character and tenacity, fighting their way back into the game and, despite the passion and effort of the players, just coming up short.

Our 2nd XV had a superb victory over local rivals Harbury, while our Age Grade section was once again busy hosting visiting teams. At times, the club seemed to be bursting with children’s energy – if only we could harness it, we could probably power the club for a year!

Behind all of that were our volunteers. Coaches, team managers, kitchen staff, match-day support and the many others who quietly give their time to make sure everything runs smoothly. The rugby is what we see on the pitch, but it simply wouldn’t happen without everything going on around it.

A particular mention must go to our Hornets, who took over the kitchen and ran a raffle to raise funds towards their 2027 tour.

For many of our Hornets, being part of a busy match-day environment brings its own challenges\. Seeing them working together, serving supporters, handling the pressure of a crowded clubhouse and developing confidence and valuable life skills was something very special.

Thank you to everyone who supported them and took advantage of the food on offer. That is exactly what we mean when we talk about - One Club – different sections supporting each other and everyone playing their part.

I also loved watching our two senior teams for another reason

We had some of our “veterans” pulling the boots back on alongside home-grown players who have progressed through our Age Grade system into senior rugby. We should never underestimate or take for granted what that represents.

Some of these players could choose to play elsewhere, including for clubs competing at a higher level or clubs that pay players. At OLs, we don’t pay our players. Instead, our challenge is to create an environment that makes people want to play here.

That means first -class coaching, good grounds and facilities, strong teams, financial sustainability and, just as importantly, a club where people enjoy their rugby, their friendships and being part of something bigger than simply 80 minutes on a Saturday.

When a youngster starts their rugby journey at OLs and, years later, pulls on a senior shirt for the same club, we should celebrate it

And when those players then become the experienced heads who help the next generation make that same journey, we know we are building something sustainable.

That is the club we want OLs to be.

One Club. One Community. One Standard