Unusual rugby club

Press, 22 August 1979, Page 22

Unusual rugby club

A rugby club, unusual m more ways than one, will make its first appearance in Christchurch tonight when it plays in the curtain-raiser to the final of the D.C.L. Shield match at Denton Oval.

The club is Felbridge Juniors, from Suss.ex, England. The club, formed just 10 years ago, has its origins in the “leftovers” from a local soccer club. It is true to its name in catering only for juniors. The club has seven teams, ranging in age from under 13 to under 19. There is also an occasional under-21 game for “old boys” who have graduated to clubs with senior sides.

Despite its brief history, Felbridge has a remarkable touring record. It has a particular interest in touring and in the last eight years it has sent 22 sid?s away, mainly to Europe. but including One to the West Indies.

Felbridge also encourages reciprocal tours from the countries it visits and there have been a number of these. The club is committed to the principle of playing open, entertaining rugby, while at the same time enabling its members to see something of the world.

Not surprisingly, it has continual fund-raising worry, but through the combined efforts of players and parents the club has been able to stay afloat financially. The present tour, which takes in Australia and Fiji,-as well as New Zealand, is the biggest undertaking to date. It is alsd believed to be the first time that an English club side — senior or junior — has been to New Zealand.

Felbridge’s host club in Christchurch is Shirley, which with its senior team meeting New Brighton in the D.C.L. Shield final will have an interest in both games at Denton Oval tonight. For the curtain-raiser, the tourists will field their strongest XV, comprising mainly 19-year-olds, against a composite Shirley junior side, while later this week there will be a more social match for the remainder of the party against another Shirley selection.