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DIGITAL PROGRAMME: HARLEQUINS (GP:R9)

Saturday 23 December 2023

By Bath Rugby

December 22^nd, 2023

REST IN PEACE, DR. THOMAS HUDSON (1935-2023)

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dr Thomas (Tom) Hudson on 19 December at the age of 88.

Born on 15 December 1935, Tom went on to become a legendary fitness coach as part of Bath Rugby’s ‘famous three’ alongside Jack Rowell and Dave Robson. He was inducted into Bath Rugby’s off-pitch Hall of Fame in 2018.

His athletic prowess was evident from an early age and saw him representing Great Britain as a modern pentathlete in the 1956 Summer Olympics.

But his dedication to sporting excellence extended beyond his individual achievements.

In 1966, he was appointed fitness coach at Llanelli RFC when Carwyn James was head coach. As a result of structured fitness training, Llanelli became a very exciting and formidable side, eventually being the first club side to defeat the All Blacks.

From 1968-1971, Tom was responsible for organising the fitness training of the Swansea University rugby teams.

In 1973, Tom had left Llanelli and became the first ever Director of Sport at Bath University. He was keen on conditioning players in preparation for match days, believed that chosen games should be targeted and that a squad system should be introduced, all of which are methods that are instrumental to the modern game today.

Whilst working at University of Bath in the early 1980s, Tom teamed up with Rowell and Robson to form an unbeatable management team for Bath Rugby.

This triumvirate was central to steering the club through a period of unparalleled success. With Jack at the helm and their collective guidance, Bath Rugby dominated competitions during this era and set new benchmarks in the sport. Tom's expertise as Bath Rugby's conditioning coach was particularly instrumental during this golden time.

His innovative approaches, team motivation, and commitment to excellence helped shape a formidable Bath team that triumphed in every competition they faced.

His legacy is not just in the medals and trophies the teams won, but also in the countless athletes he inspired and the indelible mark he left on British sports.

His passing is a profound loss to Bath Rugby and the world of sport, and his contributions will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.

Bath Rugby extends its heartfelt condolences to his wife Jan, his son Andrew, along with all his family and friends. The club acknowledges their deep sorry and stands in solidarity with his loved ones during this difficult time.

Tom’s memory will forever be a part of Bath Rugby's history, and his spirit will continue to inspire all those connected with sport.

FIVE CHANGES FOR CHRISTMAS CLASH AGAINST HARLEQUINS

Bath Rugby get back to Premiership Rugby action this weekend taking on Harlequins at a sold out Rec.

Johann van Graan has made five changes to his starting XV seeing Niall Annett come in at hooker.

Annett will be joined by Beno Obano at loosehead, who retains his jersey for the fourth week in a row.

Thomas du Toit is named as tighthead, with Elliott Stooke and Charlie Ewels completing the tight five set up.

Across the back row, Miles Reid moves to open side, with GJ van Vleze coming in on the blindside.

Alfie Barbeary completes the forwards pack after getting on the scoreboard once again last weekend.

Ben Spencer will captain from scrum-half, with fly-half Finn Russell partnering him at 10.

Max Ojomoh is back in the starting XV, alongside Ollie Lawrence who takes the outside centre spot.

Will Muir and Joe Cokanasiga retain their positions on the wings, and Matt Gallagher lends his aerial skill to the team at full back.

Tom Dunn, Juan Schoeman and Will Stuart look to add impact off the bench, with Quinn Roux and Jaco Coetzee also named as replacements in a 5-3 split.

Louis Schreuder, Orlando Bailey and Cameron Redpath complete van Graan's matchday selection as the Blue, Black and White take on Harlequins who sit third in the league table, one place behind Bath Rugby who sit second.

The game kicks off at 15:05 at The Rec, with the fixture already sold out.

"I'M HAPPY TO GET AN OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY AT THE REC" - GJ VAN VELZE

"It's great to be back playing and it's great to be involved in this group. I think there's a great feeling amongst the place and that's all down to a lot of hard work and a lot of sacrifice.

"It's a good environment at the moment. It's testament to the progress that the club is making that each week now it pretty much seems to be a top of the table game Bath is preparing for.

"I think it shows that the Premiership is so tight at the moment. We didn't say much last season because the results weren't coming our way, but we were still putting in the hard work. Now we're just getting a little bit more reward for the hard work.

"I'm happy to be involved. I'm happy to get an opportunity to play at The Rec again and for the opportunity to play in this quality side.

"I think everybody is aligned. Everybody knows what we're looking to achieve and how we want to achieve it. But that's all underpinned with exceptionally hard work.

"We all know if we're grown up enough, nothing in life comes for free. So there's been huge sacrifices from staff, supporters, people on the commercial side and some of the players as well that will hopefully bring success.

"Sport is unique in a way where you can do everything right and you still don't always get the results but sometimes when you don't do everything right you get the result.

"For us, it's more about the process, so I think it's exciting, the future looks bright."

THE REC TO HOST TWO ENGLAND U20 SIX NATIONS FIXTURES

England U20 Men’s team will return to Bath Rugby for their penultimate 2024 Six Nations fixture against Ireland on Friday 8 March, with tickets available to buy now.

The Rec will welcome Mark Mapletoft’s young side for the 7.15pm kick-off, meaning a return to the venue a month after their Round 2 meeting with Wales U20 on Friday 9 February.

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR BATH RUGBY DEBUT, HAME

Huge congratulations to Hame Faiva who made his Bath Rugby debut last weekend off the bench against Cardiff Rugby.

Faiva joined the club last month, bringing with him his experience playing the URC and Super Rugby league.

LEARN MORE ABOUT VYOO

THE RECCY: MERRY QUINSMAS

The Gallagher Premiership returns this weekend and we have a wonderfully festive Saturday in store for you!

WHEN GATES OPEN FROM 13:05

Happy Hour - secure your discounted pints 🍻
Tunnel of noise for the players' arrival 👏
Live music from The Shadow Monkeys 💿
NextGen Christmas kids' zone 🎅
Bath Rugby Foundation raffle - win a signed England Rugby World Cup jersey!
Matchday Ambassadors 👋
Thatchers Apples 🍎
Mascot Max 🦁
Food & beverage, including warming winter hot cocktails from Dave Attwood's Apero Bar 🍹
Bath Rugby Shop - secure any last minute Christmas presents! 🎁
Fan Radio 📻
Bath Rugby Supporters' Club 🤝
Face painter 🎨
Travel sorted with Centurion Travel 🚌

READ THE FULL RECCY

PURCHASE VIÑALBA

MATCH PREVIEW, DELIVERED BY HUBOO

After two weeks of European action in the Investec Champions Cup, the Premiership is back and Bath Rugby return to blue, black and white hoops to take to the turf of The Rec.

Facing Harlequins in a hotly anticipated fixture that sold out weeks ago, Johann van Graan's men currently sit second in the Premiership table, level on points with the leaders, Sale Sharks.

After two bonus point wins in the Champions Cup, Bath Rugby are back in action in the Gallagher Premiership and ready to give themselves an early Christmas present looking for a win over Harlequins.

Previewing the fixture, van Graan said: "We're looking forward to Quins. They've been one of the better teams in the Premiership and it's always great this time of year.

"We're sold out already, just before Christmas, everybody is in a festive mood, everybody wants to play in this game and we're really looking forward to it against a class team.

"We've been consistent in our messaging, both internally and to the outside world; we just want to get better.

"There were certain things we weren't happy with last week, and certain things we were very happy with. It's just another opportunity for us in this massive block of games.

"We as a group said that we've got Quins, Leicester, Gloucester, Racing, Toulouse and lastly Bristol to go, so there are six massive weekends to go on top of what we've had. But that's the same for all teams and we're enjoying ourselves and the brilliant challenge coming up this weekend."

READ THE FULL MATCH PREVIEW

VISIT HOMEWOOD

20% OFF HOME & AWAY KIT IN STORE, THIS FRIDSY & SATURDAY ONLY!

Our Official Retail Partner, Castore, is giving supporters 20% off all Home and Away kit in store.

This Friday and Saturday only, head to the Bath Rugby Shop on Argyle Street to take advantage of the exclusive offer.

Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Friday 22 & Saturday 23 December only.

ABOUT THE OPPOSITION: HARLEQUINS

Sitting in third place, just behind Bath Rugby in the Premiership Rugby table, Harlequins have been a formidable competition for the Blue, Black and White in recent years.

The last time the teams met, Bath Rugby stormed to a 35-45 victory over Quins at the home of England Rugby, Twickenham Stadium.

Looking to bounce back from the home defeat, if selected, Harlequins fly-half, Marcus Smith, will look to offer his usual style of play, breaking lines, side-stepping the defence and throwing his locks back in his characteristic goose-step.

Recent signing and England international, Joe Launchbury, offers a threat upfront with his power at the breakdown and his line-out stealing ability, in which Richard Blaze's coaching will come into play.

Elsewhere, Quins have plenty of talent across the board, with names such as World Cup-winning Andre Esterhuizen, England internationals Joe Marler, Danny Care and Alex Dombrandt, and young talent Will Joseph all performing well for the Twickenham-based outfit.

QUINS' VISIT TO THE REC LAST SEASON

Bath Rugby 36-19 Exeter Chiefs

Saturday 26 March 2023

BATH RUGBY V HARLEQUINS 22/23

TRY MR FILBERT'S

CLUB CONTINUES COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP PROMOTING MATCHDAY SAFETY

Every week, Bath Rugby supporters travel from far and wide to support the Blue, Black and White in their Gallagher Premiership campaign.

Whether at home at The Rec, or travelling across the country, win or lose the Bath Rugby faithful is there to cheer the team on.

As a club, Bath Rugby wants to make sure it is doing all it can to ensure the matchday experience is a safe space for all its supporters and the wider community.

After the success of its campaign with Avon & Somerset Police and British Transport Police last season, Bath Rugby has joined forces once again with the two organisations to tackle violence and harassment against women and girls in the South West area.

The initiative promotes the act of being an active bystander, where we as a community can come together and safely challenge unacceptable behaviour on a matchday, on the journey to the stadium and when travelling home.

LEARN MORE

BECOME A NEXTGEN MEMBER!

NextGen, the destination for junior Bath Rugby fans.

NextGen membership is designed specifically to cater for the next generation of players and Bath Rugby fans aged between 4 and 16, providing exclusive access to child-friendly content, unforgettable experiences and fantastic competitions.

If you fit the below criteria, NextGen membership has you covered!

✔️ Forever Blue, Black and White

✔️ Aged 4-16

✔️ Rugby fanatic

✔️ Enjoy watching funny content

✔️ Excited to win exclusive prizes

And the best part - it's all FREE!

SIGN UP TO NEXTGEN TODAY

TIKTOK MAGICIAN, DAN RHODES, TEACHES FINN, WILL AND SAM MAGIC TRICKS!

Dan Rhodes, who boasts over 10 million followers on TikTok, headed to The Rec recently where he met Finn Russell, Will Stuart and Sam Harris to teach them a bunch of tricks from his locker.

See how the trio got on!

WIN IN OUR ROLEX RAFFLE!

In one of our most generous donations to date, Watches of Bath have gifted the Foundation a Rolex Submariner watch worth £10,000... and it could be yours!

For your chance to win this ultimate prize, enter the raffle for just £10!

Tickets are available to purchase using the link below, or pop along to the Abbey Hotel's Christmas Market Snow Globe to speak to the team and purchase.

Every penny of the money raised in the raffle goes towards helping children and young people in Bath and the surrounding areas.

ENTER THE RAFFLE

A THANK YOU FROM LYNNE, OUR CHIEF EXECUTIVE

As we gather with our loved ones to celebrate Christmas, I am filled with immense gratitude for the unwavering support Bath Rugby Foundation has received from you throughout the year.

I am honoured to lead an organization that believes every child deserves a fair start in life and your generosity and commitment has created a beacon of hope for the children and young people who rely on our support.

In a region where an estimated 10,000 children are underserved, Bath Rugby Foundation has been able to make a tangible impact, supporting 4,500 children this year. This achievement is a testament to the collective strength of our community, and it highlights the positive change that can be achieved when we stand together for a common cause.

Your contributions, whether financial, in-kind, or through your valuable time, have helped us provide social, emotional, and practical support to those who need it the most. Your belief in our mission has empowered us to nurture resilience, inspire dreams, and create opportunities for a better tomorrow.

As we approach the end of the year, I want to take this opportunity to express my deepest thanks to each supporter who has played a role in our journey. Your kindness and dedication have not only shaped the lives of thousands of children but have also sown the seeds for a more compassionate and inclusive society.

RUN THE BATH HALF FOR US IN MARCH!

Looking for your next challenge? Open to pushing yourself? We're looking for people to run the Bath Half on behalf of Bath Rugby Foundation in March.

When running and raising money for Bath Rugby Foundation, you'll not only be changing the lives of young people in and around Bath, but you'll also get:

Free limited edition Bath Rugby Foundation running vest
Training runs and running clinics to improve your time and recovery
Massage sessions throughout your training, as well as on the day of the Bath Half
Secure bag storage
Warm space pre and post run
Food and hydration taken care of
Bath Half cheering support
Jelly babies!!

FREE DRAW FOR ALL ON REACHING 1,000 BRSC MEMBERS

With 2023 drawing to a close, we would like to thank all members of our independent supporters' club. Whether you are a new member or a long-term supporter of our 26-year-old supporters' club, we are delighted that you have joined us.

We are sure that we're all looking forward to 2024 with renewed confidence and enthusiasm for the club we love. The excitement that we share today is an improvement on our experiences over the last few years, fluctuating performances on the pitch and the impact of the pandemic affected the influence we could have as a supporters’ club. We are very grateful to our members that stuck with us through these challenging times.

As we look forward to Christmas, we are delighted to share with you that our membership sits on the unprecedented cusp of nearly 1,000 members. As well as saying a big thank you we wanted to share with you that BRSC will celebrate this milestone with a raffle where all 1,000 members will be entered into a prize draw.

When we reach the magic 1,000, ALL members will automatically be entered into the free draw – so, you don’t have to do anything. The lucky winner will be notified, and the mystery prize can either be sent to them or picked up at the supporters’ club gazebo on any home match day.

Thank you for your ongoing support and on behalf of the independent Bath Rugby Supporters' Club. We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Blue, Black and White New Year.