Stourbridge Director of Rugby Neil Mitchell is pleased to announce that over 30 players have already signed contracts for the 2021/22 season, in spite of a drastic cut to the First XV playing budget.

Mitchell said, “The pandemic has resulted in substantial losses in financial income for all sports clubs, especially in terms of membership, sponsorship and revenue from social events. Stourbridge, like most sports facilities, have had to review their position and adjust accordingly. This has meant that the expenditure to run a team at level four has had to be significantly reduced. I had spoken to all of the squad from last season early in the New Year and they all understand the position the Club finds itself in and understood my desire to ask them to put pen to paper and commit to next season. This sends the right message out to all players and members of Stourbridge RFC about the commitment from the senior squad and their desire to support and demonstrate their loyalty in very difficult and uncertain times. Many of our senior players could have held off and easily secured lucrative contracts at clubs at our level and above so their commitment with the uncertainties ahead, not only means a great deal to me personally, but it shows that the guys are happy and settled with the coaching we deliver and the camaraderie within a balanced squad."

In addition to the five recent Sandwell Academy signings, Mitchell has retained all but two of last season’s squad, unable to commit at this stage. However, the addition of the very experienced Mike Penn from Moseley and with OSH boys, Ben Meakin and Louis Mifsud, coming through the club junior ranks, they are well set for what should be a very welcome and exciting season ahead for the players, supporters and sponsors.

Mitchell has also been in communication with former Scotland back row Peter Walton, who heads Gloucester Academy and together they will be renewing the loan relationship within the coming season which worked so well for both parties last term, by gaining some league experience for their young fringe players and supplementing the strength and depth of the First XV squad.

With the relaxing of restrictions in the coming months there is the possibility of some rugby being played before the end of May at all levels within the Club and our return to rugby plan will be announced very shortly.

Current Squad Contracted for 2021/22

Forwards
Mark George
Chad Thorne
Alex Maxwell
Jack Walters
Adam Sturdy
Steph Thorp
Mike Worthington
Archie Tarbuck
Jack Lea
Matt Perks
Nick Murphy
James Rodley
Nigel Mukarati
Ben Meakin
Louis Mifsud
Tony Yates
Jess Smith

Backs
Joe Heatley
Dallas Ororo
Chris Scott
Max Brown
Arthur Morgan
Freddie Morgan
George Morgan
Mark Harrison
Afi Lokotui
Dan Rundle
Dmitri Morrison
Adam Tamillo
Oli Clare
Reece Beddows
Mike Penn