WITH the season now over, Skipton RUFC President Simon Smith has given his thoughts on the 22/23 campaign through the form of a ‘President’s letter’.

Reflecting on the season, Smith said: “It has been a busy one but enjoyable one, and not without success.

“The first team finished 5th in Yorkshire Three, two places up on last year and played some very entertaining rugby in the end of season cup run, earning a place in the Aire-Wharfe Plate Final against Burley. It was not to be their night, but they can be proud of their achievements this season. The most important thing is that they enjoyed it. They enjoyed playing rugby, enjoyed each other's company as teammates and were enjoyable to watch. They are a great set of guys, and my thanks goes to Carl as Head Coach, and Beth Wade, Ed Porter and others in support.

“The club is in good health, nowhere more evident than the ladies team, the Skipton Roses, who under the guidance of Brian Brocksom, were unbeaten in National Challenge Three North. It was amazing for them to be crowned league champions, reach the Quarter Finals of the National Junior Cup and then round off the season with Sarah Pate and Courtney Cowgill being selected for the Yorkshire Senior Women's Squad, and Lottie Emily Knowles representing England Women’s Deaf.

“The mini and junior section are a vital and integral part of the club, as amply illustrated at the mini and junior awards presentations to a packed clubhouse on Sunday 7 May. My thanks to all the coaches, volunteers, helpers and parents who work to make the mini and junior section happen each week.

“The club is also in good health financially, with the clubhouse and function facility being well run by Warren and his team. My thanks go to them and also to the many volunteers: groundsmen, programme sellers, maintenance and repair, catering, photographers and website managers, fund raisers and the many other tasks that go on, seen and unseen, to make the club happen.

“I can't finish without a word of thanks for the financial support for the club from our Main Sponsor - Rosehill Sports & Play, part of the Rosehill Polymers Group, and all the match sponsors, ball sponsors, pitch side advertisers and player sponsors, whose contribution is so valuable in helping the club to provide all the facilities we can for the playing of Rugby Football.”