AYLESBURY RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB

Eds Note: The purpose of “#COYA’s Column” is to give a voice to those that have something positive to say.  If you would like to write an article for the matchday programme then now is your chance.  Submissions must be supportive, engaging, cheerful and respectful.  Everyone can make a submission be they players, social members, coaches, club officials, sponsors, youth members, the grounds staff or anyone else connected to the club.  There are a million things you could write about such as; highlighting something we do really well, sharing memories of club legends, opinions on developments of the game, memories of your team past, progress with a youth team, fund raising and celebrating milestones.  If that is you then put pen to paper, write a 350 word article and send it to webadmin@aylesburyrfc.co.uk

ARFC Colts – 2026/27 Season Update

A guest article by David Mason Colts Head Coach

The 2025/26 season was one of the most successful for ARFC Colts in recent years. Competing in two leagues, the squad finished champions of the Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire (OBB) League and runners-up in the Hertfordshire League, narrowly missing out on a league double.

Promotion to OBB League 2 followed, and with a busier fixture schedule, the decision was made to withdraw from the Hertfordshire League. This allows the squad to concentrate on its new league challenge while arranging development fixtures to provide valuable game time for all players.

The squad has grown to 42 players, including 15 returning senior Colts, four experienced players from the former Chesham Colts and a strong group of junior Colts progressing from last season's Under-16s.

The coaching team remains largely unchanged, with Dave Mason (Head Coach), Chris Umpleby, Will Mitchell and Paul Warwick joined by Matt Wilson, who moves up with last season's Under-16 squad, bringing valuable continuity and knowledge of the younger players.

The season started later than planned following RFU guidance concerning unsafe pitch conditions after the exceptionally hot summer. Nevertheless, pre-season fixtures against higher-level opposition produced encouraging performances and provided useful preparation for the challenges ahead.

Our coaching philosophy continues to place enjoyment, development and teamwork at the heart of everything we do. As players mature and prepare for the transition into senior rugby, maintaining their enthusiasm and confidence is particularly important. Several players have embraced new positions, developing their skills while giving the squad greater flexibility and strength in depth.

The Colts also entered the National Cup, facing a strong Harpenden side on 4 October. Despite a spirited performance, ARFC were defeated, leaving the squad free to concentrate on the OBB League campaign.

There is plenty to look forward to this season. The players are developing their understanding, building friendships and learning to trust one another both on and off the pitch. Rugby is about much more than results: attitude, camaraderie, commitment and personal development are equally important.

With a talented squad, dedicated coaches and a positive team spirit, the foundations are firmly in place for another successful and rewarding season.

One Team. One Club. One Goal. 🏉

SEND in Rugby

A guest article by Sarah Stevens Head of Safeguarding at ARFC

In today’s society, creating inclusive sporting environments is no longer an optional extra—it’s an essential part of ensuring every young person can enjoy the physical, social and emotional benefits of team sport.  At Aylesbury Rugby Club, this commitment has become a core part of our identity, with a growing focus on meeting Special Educational Needs (SEN) and supporting neurodiverse players.

A key driver of this inclusive culture has been the club’s commitment to neurodiversity training for the mini and junior coaching team.

Coaches have explored the diverse ways in which children think, communicate and process information, helping them understand how to adapt sessions to support players with autism, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental differences. This practical training has equipped staff with strategies that make a real‑world difference—such as using visual supports, reducing sensory overload, offering predictable routines, and building in movement breaks. Importantly, it has helped coaches shift from a “one‑size‑fits‑all” approach to a more responsive, flexible style that celebrates individual strengths.

The Club’s experienced safeguarding lead has brought her professional skills and background in inclusion forward to champion SEN awareness and ensure communication with families is proactive and supportive.

This reinforces the message that inclusion is not simply about access—it’s about belonging. As a result, parents and children feel confident that their children’s needs are understood, and players feel safe, valued and empowered to participate fully. Volunteer coaches also feel supported in an area which is often outside their comfort zone.

Aylesbury Rugby Club’s approach to neurodiversity embodies the TREDS values and models the qualities that strengthen the whole club community. This commitment is increasingly visible across training sessions, match days and club events, where players of all abilities are encouraged to express themselves and contribute in meaningful ways. By fostering patience, empathy and understanding, the club not only supports neurodiverse children but also helps their teammates develop important life skills. This culture of respect and inclusivity is helping to shape a generation of young people who recognise the value of difference and the power of working together—both on and off the pitch.

#COYA’s Column

Welcome everyone to this, the first guest column in our new format Matchday Programme! 

The purpose of the guest column, or what we are calling “#COYA’s Column” is to give a voice to those that have something positive to say.  If you would like to write an article then now is your chance.  Submissions must be supportive, engaging, cheerful and respectful.  Everyone can make a submission be they players, social members, coaches, club officials, sponsors, youth members, the grounds staff or anyone else connected to the club. 

There are a million things you could write about such as; highlighting something we do really well, sharing memories of club legends, opinions on developments of the game, memories of your team past, progress with a youth team, fund raising and celebrating milestones.  If that is you then put pen to paper, write a 350 word article and send it to webadmin@aylesburyrfc.co.uk .

In our next programme, we will publish an excellent piece titled ‘Special Educational Needs In Rugby’ by our very own Sarah Stevens.  

And while I have your attention - Let them know! Please don’t be shy, if you are a Club member and you buy products or services from one of our sponsors or advertisers then please do let them know you are from ARFC.   They like to see they are getting noticed. Especially as WokBang and Howden Insurance Aylesbury branch now offer discounts to members - details of which can be found here. 

Sponsorship packages - Did you know you can procure a Sponsor Package at any time of the year and it will run for 12 months from the date of purchase. You do not have to wait until the start of the season. Indeed, from the Club’s perspective February is a great month to start your support. To become a sponsor of our great club and to see what packages and benefits are available, turn to the Become a Sponsor pages in this programme or contact Jim via sponsorship@aylesburyrfc.co.uk.

Thank you for reading and we look forward to receiving loads of great articles!

John Charnock – ARFC Web and Sponsorship guy