From our coaches to our matchday staff, the Friday club, the band of heroes who work to keep our pitches usable, and to the coaches and parents of our amazing minis and juniors sections. Our rugby club would grind to a halt without your help.

Last year we said goodbye to three Directors: Ian Duncan stepped down as President, Bill Gornall-King as Secretary and John Raspin from running the Minis and Juniors.

I learnt so much from them all, and they have supported me with help and advice as I stepped up to the Presidential role. Thanks chaps.

We welcome to the Directors’ Meetings our new club secretary, Owen Espley, and Chris Stillman has seamlessly stepped into the role of running the minis and juniors.

I sit in these meetings listening and trying to learn how our rugby club operates - it’s bloody hard work!

I thank my other Directors for enduring my child-like questions and guiding me in the way things are done. I promise to get better…

I’ve had such a wonderful time as President so far this season, and would like to congratulate everyone involved in the first team set up, not just our incredible players.

The coaches, back room staff and special mention to Daryl Watson who has stepped into some very large shoes as first team manager and has made it his own. Thank you all for entertaining us each week.

The home games continue to generate a fantastic atmosphere thanks to the amazing support from the Ramily.

I walk around the pitch each game and try to say hello to as many spectators as I can.

Thank you all for coming out to watch and lend your support. I know the team on the pitch gets such a buzz from hearing the noise you make. I’d love to see us have a 1,000+ spectators for every home game, so spread the word!

In 2025, Rams and Reading RFC are looking to come together to start a Regional Rugby Partnership (RRP).

It’s very important we, as a successful club, support other local clubs. It’s hoped we can offer advice when needed to Reading RFC and we have a lot to learn from each other.

I can see this model being extended to other clubs, where a rugby alliance of mutual support will see more clubs flourish.

The idea of the RRP comes with a bit of personal heartbreak for me as it will see social rugby at Rams move over to Reading RFC at the end of this season.

I have argued the merits of keeping a third team going at Rams, but my heart can’t overrule my head.

I know in the long term it’s the right move, but change is always difficult in the here and now.

I have spoken to most of the third team in person and they have (in the most part) taken the news in a very pragmatic and positive way. I thank them for that.

I, along with Jack Gaylor - the outstanding player manager of our social rugby - will continue to support the lads with whatever they need. I ask you all to support the RRP in all aspects. Some very difficult decisions have been made, I fully back those who had to make them.

As for the club as a whole, this is going to be such an exciting year of rugby!

The first team league is so evenly balanced there is no way of predicting who will be on top when it all ends, while the Development XV's Wednesday night games are amazing to watch!

I’ve been so lucky to watch all the 1s' games so far and to represent the club at the away fixtures. For this honour I am truly thankful. A big shout out to those who travel to the away games to support!

Finally, I wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year. See you at the next game!

Marcus Noye
President Rams RFC