As we begin another season at London Irish Amateur RFC, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on what has been a very positive pre-season across the Club.

It has been particularly encouraging to see so many families, both familiar faces and new ones, coming through the gates at Hazelwood for Minis and Youth rugby. Numbers are ahead of previous years, which is a tremendous sign for the future of the Club and for the strength of our rugby pathway.

There is, of course, sadness around the Emeralds and the challenges the Women's section has faced. But that disappointment will, I am sure, be overshadowed by the determination to rebuild the team and create something strong and sustainable for the future. London Irish has a proud tradition of women's rugby, and we remain committed to restoring that pathway.

Elsewhere, the Geese and the Wanderers have enjoyed some excellent pre-season results, and there is a real sense of momentum building across the senior sides. The Geese play their first home game of the season at Hazelwood on Saturday 26th September, and everyone is very welcome to come along, support the team and help create a great atmosphere.

The Board will be holding a Club Town Hall at Hazelwood on Wednesday 30th September. I would strongly encourage members, players, parents, coaches and volunteers to come along. It will be an opportunity to hear directly from the Board about its first few months, the position of the Club today, and importantly, our plans and ambitions for the future.

London Irish has always been about much more than what happens on the pitch. It is about families, friendships, volunteers, players and generations of people who have made this Club their home.

There is a great deal to look forward to this season, and I hope to see as many of you as possible at Hazelwood over the coming weeks - starting with the Geese on 26th September and then at the Town Hall on 30th September.

Best wishes,

Nick Jackson
President
London Irish Amateur RFC

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