Mat French as our Vice Chairman who will be working alongside Karl.
Doug Bolton as our new Minis Chairman replacing Cheryl after her 4 seasons of sterling work with the Minis

Mat French is 52 and is married to Amanda with 2 daughters, Anna 22 (working from home) and Lizzie 20 (studying at Nottingham Trent). They live in Copford and support the local pub The Alma. Mat and Amanda will celebrate their silver wedding anniversary later this year.

Mat joined the club as a colt many years ago and played senior rugby until he was about 30 when he had to retire due to bad knees. Mat likes to boast that he has played in every team from the 6ths to 1sts - he says, “ I came on as sub once but I'll take that!

Mat has done a wonderful job looking after our Patrons’ scheme for the past 4 years and would be happy to share details with you at any time if you wish to join up.

Mat and his brother Jim run the successful Landscape Centre in Stanway but still finds time for sport, taking part in cycling, walking and golf as well as watching rugby and cricket. He also enjoys travelling (when allowed) and exploring new places.

Mat is very much looking forward to taking up his new role at the club especially at this exciting time.

Doug Boulton is 52 and lives in Pebmarsh with his wife Estela and son Max who is 11 and attends St Joseph’s College in Ipswich.

Doug has a long association with Colchester and started coaching in Under 6s and has been doing it ever since, going through the age groups so has a wealth of experience of coaching our Minis’ section. Doug also (alongside Ross) runs the very successful Touch Rugby on a Friday night - all ages and abilities are welcome! Doug is also a DPP coach for Northampton Saints.

As Doug says he basically spends most evenings at the club, Monday, Wednesday & Friday, watches on Saturdays and coaches on Sundays - I think he must like rugby!

Doug has had a career in logistics since 1993 and runs SB Freight International Ltd based in Rainham.

Our new Minis’ Chairman loves the gym and Rugby wherever and whenever he can get his fix! Watching, coaching & supporting.

Doug says, “I am very much looking forward to helping get CRFC to the places we all want it to be.”

A note about playing on artificial pitches (which we will be from next weekend) from our Senior Chairman Jon Smith.

USE studded footwear only; NO blades or flat soles. Footwear SHOULD be clean and in good condition.

AND FINALLY…

On Friday 7th May from 7:00 p.m. onwards the final games of Touch will take place and Mill Road - if you want to share in this occasion do come along - socially distanced of course and bring your own refreshment.

We start the move this weekend...

From a very excited President,

Maggie