A European game at The Rec is always a special occasion, but when it involves one of the Top 14 French sides, we know to expect a momentous encounter.
Round 3 of the EPCR Challenge Cup means BRSC says 'Accueil' and 'Bonne année' to RC Toulon and its supporters.
It is especially for these matches that our boys in the Blue, Black & White train and prepare with such dedication, which was typified by Tom Doughty’s excitement at the prospect of playing in the cauldron that was the Stade Mayol, back on 17 December 2022.
Tom scored our only try in Toulon and shortly afterwards sustained a painful injury which ended his involvement in that match.
I had the privilege to join the team when we travelled to the south of France in December and whilst we were well beaten on the day, there was continued evidence of our strong defensive resistance together with an array of fluid attacking moves to enjoy.
We are now more than half way through the domestic 2022/23 season which has again seen disruption with the aftermath of Covid-19 and the very sad, hopefully temporary, demise of Worcester Warriors and Wasps.
However, there is also much to celebrate in the hooped jersey – we have recently had confirmation of a whole host of our squad renewing or extending their contracts and committing to Bath Rugby.
In addition, we have the prospect of welcoming the world-class Scottish fly half, Finn Russell when he joins us from Racing 92 at the end of this season.
Bath Rugby is continually strengthening its squad and this is why our support contributes such a vital piece of the jigsaw in regaining our position in the top four of the Gallagher Premiership and restoring The Rec to the fortress we all know it can be, as we saw last time out against Newcastle Falcons. The transformation won’t happen overnight, but we continue to make big, confident strides towards it.
By joining BRSC, for as little as £10.00 per season (Single Membership), you can demonstrate that support for ALL Bath Rugby teams and at the same time enjoy the many benefits it brings. From significant discounts at numerous diverse local businesses in and around Bath, (including 10% off in the Bath Rugby shop) to joining evenings in the company of Ross Batty and Francois Louw and a 'Q&A' session at Farleigh House, both of which we have recently enjoyed.
We will shortly hold our annual quiz and 'Ask the Ref' (with Tony Spreadbury – EPCR Head of Match Officials) evenings in the Clubhouse at The Rec, and planning is already well underway for the prestigious Annual Awards Supper, at the end of the season, where you spend the evening with one of the 1st XV players sat at your table.
If you would like to become part of the 'wider Bath Rugby family' then come and see us at our Gazebo in north east corner (behind and opposite the big screen) at all Gallagher Premiership home games (we’re there from gates open until 30 minutes before kick-off) or visit our website. We also have a growing Junior Membership dedicated to our younger supporters.
Enjoy today’s game, watching some world class names on the hallowed turf, demonstrate your vocal support for Bath Rugby and we hope to see you at The Rec again soon.
Allez-Bath!
David Harrington
Secretary, Bath Rugby Supporters’ Club