Latest News

Welcome to the latest edition of the club’s newsletter.

We wish you all the happiest possible New Year and look forward to seeing you on or off the field!

Please take the time to read and keep yourself updated on what is happening at the club.

CODE OF CONDUCT

We'd like to remind all members of our club's Code of Conduct - Club Policies l Old Parkonians Association -  and the duty of everyone at the club (players, spectators, volunteers, visitors) to operate in line with the core values. These are teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship. We take a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of abuse, bullying, belittling and are committed to building an inclusive, safe and diverse environment where everyone feels welcome to enjoy sport.

Please be reminded that failure to comply with the core values and behaviours detailed in this Code will result in disciplinary action. 

You can report any concerns to any club official such as the Club Safeguarding Officer, a Club Director, the relevant Team Committees, any team captain or coach, or the clubs sporting governing bodies (the RFU or the ECB). Information of who the club officials are can be found on noticeboards in the clubhouse or on the club website.

Thank you for your continued cooperation in making our club a safe, inclusive and welcoming place for all,

SPORT ON TV

We are pleased to say that following negotiations with Sky and TNT we are now able to stream more rugby, cricket and football. Please keep your eyes open to see what is being shown and please support us when you can to help us make these financially viable.

We also add that the club has received information to tell us that streaming without the correct authority will result in legal action with the likelihood of substantial fines or other legal sanctions. These would have a serious impact on the viability and finances of the club.

Please note we will only show sporting events in line with the permissions we have.

OLD PARKONIANS SUGGESTION BOX

Thanks to all members who have shared ideas and thoughts via the suggestion box. The feedback is now being reviewed and will be presented to OPAL.

SENIOR RUGBY

Our 1^st XV have continued their impressive form into the new year and have maintained their 100% record for the season to date. The latest victory came against Birchfield RUFC in a hard-fought win.

The 2^nd XV are also having a great season and following an impressive victory at Sefton RUFC they remain in 2^nd place on their league.

Training continues under the lights at McAlester Field on Wednesday evenings from 7.30 to 8.30.

However, we have had some disciplinary issues recently, which means we have received a final warning from the Referees Society. We cannot afford to have any further issues with match officials from players or spectators. We must respect the referees. REMEMBER “ No referee, no game.”

WOMENS TOUCH RUGBY

The Women’s Touch Rugby squad are training on Thursdays at Birkenhead school from 6.30pm-7.30pm. 

We are keen to expand our squad so if anyone is interested or knows anyone, they can just turn up or contact Sarah McDonnell on 07717 414098 or Jade Kirkham on 07791 427769. All welcome. Now’s good timing to get a few months in before the season which runs April- end July.

JUNIOR RUGBY

The junior section is currently in a very good position with strong numbers in the majority of age groups.

• The under 16s have had some excellent recent additions to the team, meaning numbers are back to full strength. Over the last few months, there have been multiple injuries that have depleted the squad, but despite this the team have put in some fantastic performances.
• The under 14s have really come together after some early season unrest due to losing a few key players. Recent performances have shown these lads are really starting to show all their hard work is paying off.
• The under 12s have continued with their fine form with some great recent victories, getting stronger as the season goes on.
• The under 11s are continuing to build, showing some real grit and determination this season under the guidance of their coaches.
• The minis are going from strength to strength thanks to Rob’s hard work and dedication. We have seen an influx of under 7’s and are building well in under 9’s. We do need more under 8’s players so will shortly be doing a recruitment drive to push for more players ready for next season.

We rely on volunteers to keep us going, so if anyone can help us in the kitchen on a Sunday, even if it’s just setting up and tidying away after the games, it would be greatly appreciated

CRICKET

During the off-season, the Cricket Committee have been busy planning for the year ahead, and we’re pleased to confirm details for pre-season training.

For the Adult and U15 sections, nets will begin on Wednesday 11th February at Hilbre High School, 8–9pm. Nets will take place weekly through to 15th April, after which training will move outdoors.

The Women’s section have been enjoying taking park in an indoor league throughout the winter and will begin indoor training on Monday 9th March, also at Hilbre High School, 8–9pm. These sessions will run weekly up until 20th April, after which training will move back outdoors to the club on Sundays 12-1pm. 

All players intending to play this summer are encouraged to attend training, as this will help captains plan effectively for the upcoming season.

THANK YOU

OPAL