After Colchester’s most successful ever season, chairman Karl O’Brien has paid tribute to the club’s many sponsors at an evening reception at Raven Park.

“None of this would be possible without everyone here, the players, the coaches and most of all you, the sponsors,” Karl told the gathering.

With both the first and second teams promoted as champions of their respective leagues, the third team runners-up in their league and winning the Suffolk Silver Cup final, and the Iceni finishing second in their league, this was a season to remember for Colchester.

Karl was quick to give credit to the many companies, organisations and individuals who support the club at all levels though their sponsorship.

And with the club’s principle sponsors Whitehall Resources and SRC Group both signed up for another season, Karl was keen to point out that there was more to come.
“Next season will be challenging, particularly for the first team as they start life in National 2 (the fourth tier of English rugby).
“It’s about attitude and the desire to succeed, and we’ll need your support all the way.”

Karl revealed that new players had already been signed up to prepare for the bigger match day squad, with five replacements instead of three. The team will also play 26 league games rather than 22 this season.

The club also announced the dates for two pre-season friendly matches, at home to Oundle (on August 17th) and away to Tonbridge Juddians (August 24th).

Meanwhile, Maggie Whiteman outlined plans for the club’s centenary in 2025, with a whole season of events and celebrations getting under way this autumn.
“We want to put Colchester on the map as a huge part of this city,” Maggie told the assembled sponsors. “The centenary means more opportunities for this club and more opportunities for you.”

If you would like to help Colchester Rugby meet its aims for next season please contact bill@colchesterrugby.co.uk for sponsorship details.