Welcome to this edition of our InTouch Newsletter

We hope you all enjoyed the long weekend and are ready for rugby to kick off again. Membership cards for the 2022 season will be ordered at the beginning of May and will be with us shortly afterwards. We cannot order the cards until we have all registrations finalised and this does take some time with a junior club our size. In the meantime, please use your 2021 membership cards which are still valid until the end of May 2022.

Over the next few weeks, our bar will continue to be run by volunteers to support our Duty Manager in attendance. Just a couple of reminders:

•           Please help out where you can  - dispose of your rubbish and bring your used glasses/bottles to the bar.

•           Be polite – our volunteers are not getting paid and are doing their best

•           No alcohol can be consumed outside of our permitted area, which is limited to the main clubroom area, restaurant, concrete area directly outside the clubrooms overlooking Field 1 and the pit area. Under no circumstance should alcohol be consumed outside of these areas, including the car park and sheds – please make sure that you respect these requirements

Board Update

Kia ora e te whānau, tātou katoa,

I’m laying a few words down as I won this months lottery to provide a few words.  As most of you prefer to read a word from Bob, and sometimes Sponge... I’ll try to make this interesting like the front row, or short like a half back.

2022 is fast developing into the ‘new norm’ beaurocrats and others have been throwing around like fun coupons for the past few years.  The covid atmosphere is slowly dissipating and we can finally move on boots and all – be it with a slightly increased awareness around personal hygeine.

Whilst the club has significant funding and sponsorship headwinds which are no different to other clubs (the exception being we own & try to maintain our large faclities), it has been great to see old members returning to the fold to provide guidance and resources, some on the frontline and some behind the scenes.  Its also refreshing seeing some new members lending a hand and bringing other perspectives.

A big focus for the club, amongst many other things, is to develop a lifecyle strategy for our facilities alongside World Co.  In simple terms, repairing and improving what we have.  In the coming months we will have a bit more meat on the but can say it was pleasing to start the season with a refurbished Kitchen funded by World Co.

As a minimum we will be looking to mobilise a series of working bees post season, giving attention to both Westminster & Fendalton Park’s.  To date some work has already been completed with the Div 1, 2 & Womens sheds being repainted and LED lighting installed to Div 1 & 2 with more to come elsewhere.

At this juncture it would be remiss not to thank Div 1 & 2, Tony Hussey (Div 1 & Director), Chris Hammett (Div 1), Kieran Kite (Nomads), Blake Thompson (Div 1), Andy Scally (Div 2), Sam Milne Builders, Resene, K South & Redpaths.  We are looking to complete more than just a lick of paint in future so all hands, especially our tradies, will be required on deck.  Stay tuned.

Moving sideways now.  As you read this I could be siting in the 2022 NZ Rugby AGM, crossing fingers but not holding my breath, with regards to the much publicised ‘Silver Lake Deal’.  It was pleasing that earlier in the year the stalemate that developed at the NZ Rugby 2021 AGM between all of rugby and the Players Asscociation gained a positive heading with everyone now holding hands.  A caveat to those holding hands is this deal remains subject to ratification by the Provincial Unions and Māori Rugby Board... I hope the PU’s are willing to move forward now for the future of our beloved game.

The partnership with Silver Lake provides capital on a well modelled economic basis with additional capability to execute on new local & global growth opportunities, unlocking NZ Rugby’s full potential. In summary, a deal worth $200 million in a new commercial entity that will capture all revenue-generating assets of NZ Rugby, with additional co-investment of up to $100 million to be offered to local institutional investors later this year.  Silver Lakes potential ownership will only equate to approx. 5.7-8.5%.

What this means for grass roots rugby in simple terms is greater support cascading down from the Provinical Unions on mulitiple fronts such as participation, development and funding.  Whilst this space is still developing the outlook remains very bright.

Rugby.  It is great, we pass an oval ball backwards to go forwards, players dont wear plastic helmets and pads, we just beat the puss out of each other and drink beer afterwards.

All the best to all our players, coaches, and managers for the rest of the season.

Please feel free to reach out if you want to yarn, have any ideas or simply want to help our club.

Give’m the axe,

Andre ‘Baby’ Thompson

Director & Secretary

I must say it’s been a bit of a messy start to the season with Easter, ANZAC etc, but good to see Div One back on the horse, Div two losing a close one and the Women continuing to post cricket scores.

Love or hate Mark Reason but for mine he writes some very good articles and sadly I have to agree with his latest on The Crusaders. Their game of late has been riddled with many unforced errors, ill-discipline and has been very un-Crusader like. Is it the end of their dynasty? Perhaps Razor has to wield the axe in some positions. I know we should not complain at a 20 odd point win, but the signs are there.

One thing I am very glad at however is that I am not and have never been a fan of the Warriors. They are a disgrace I’m afraid and don’t deserve airtime.Their latest performance against The Storm was an absolute shocker.

There has been a fair bit of banter around our friend Mr Foster of late and I think he’s got a few sleepless nights ahead as he leads into his AB team selection. What does he do with incumbent captain Sam Cane who is certainly not the best No7 in the country? What does he do upfront, what about the midfield? At least with the backs he does not have a shortage of talent, and if they lose again does he recruit even more coaches.

One thing’s for sure the Irish Tests will be beauties.

On to this weekend and it’s all on for young and old at Linfield as we battle our old foes for the Crying Towel which Linwood currently have in their trophy cabinet. A big contingent of Axemen will join the Linwood Matadors for a pre-game luncheon where there’s bound to be some great banter.

After a bit of post-match camaraderie following our win, it will be home, out with the Shiraz, sit down and take in the much-improved Crusaders thrashing the ‘Tahs’ as I have absolute faith in Razor and his coaching team but can I just say that perhaps they are trying to play too much rugby in the wrong part of the field. Just a thought.

Go the Red and Blacks. See you Saturday.

Give Em The Axe

Bob

Player Focus

Saipele Atonio (Pele)

Prior to making his Premier Men’s debut 22 April v Burnside.

Pele was capt of Shirley Boys High First fifteen last year.

What a debut at No 6. Outstanding

Welcome to the Christchurch rugby family Pele, we look forward to your progress with interest.

Congratulations from all at CFC

Premier Men’s Report

Played Burnside at Burnside Park

Won 20-0

Tries: Will Gaulter,  Josh Ree

Cole Spinks  penalty

Josh Ree 2 conversions, penalty.

Well what a difference a fortnight makes. From a very average performance against New Brighton, to a more comprehensive and accurate display against Burnside, a team that has troubled Christchurch in the past.

Another great day for footie with full sun and only a slight breeze with a good crowd.

From the kick-off Christchurch gained early domination with firstly Josh Ree making a good break and after a couple of phases Christchurch were awarded a penalty after 5 mins which Cole Spinks the fullback converted.

Christchurch forwards gained early ascendancy at scrum and only a couple of knock on’s prevented further opportunities near the Burnside line.

After 15 minutes Burnside started to gain some territory and with their Crusader Punivai looking dangerous they started to put considerable pressure on ChCh within their 22.

Twelve phases and a player being held up over the line resulted in no reward.

It said something for ChCh’s defence that they withstood the pressure. All working for each other.

At the 20-minute mark Burnside had a player yellow carded and not long after with a penalty near the Burnside line ChCh took a scrum, won a couple of phases and Nick Annear found the dangerous Will Gaulter with a long pass and he carved through a gap for a good try near the posts. Conversion successful.

Christchurch forwards continued to impress and were unlucky soon after when a couple of drives near the line found a player held up just before the half time whistle.

Half Time 10-0 Christchurch and deservedly so.

Christchurch started second half where they finished off and after 3 minutes Josh Ree converged a penalty.

Christchurch continued to apply the pressure and Burnside struggled to get out of their half. An opportunity down the right flank was missed by ChCh with a pass ruled forward.

With all this domination cracks were starting to appear and from a scrum 10 metres out Josh Ree was fed the ball and with a good show and go he glided through unopposed near the post. Conversion successful.

After 20 mins Burnside again lost a player to the sin bin. They were being hit hard in the penalty count which as well wasn’t helping their cause.

Sam Tatupu ChCh second Five was close after a charging run aided by his teammates.

Christchurch also turned down an easy penalty for a scrum, but the outcome was unsuccessful. It was not until late in the game that Burnside offered anything, but the Christchurch defence held firm cancelling a possible try on the corner flag.

Full time and a good win which Christchurch coaches could feel satisfied with.

The bar has now been set.

SUMMARY:

The scrum was very good with front row trio of Stewart, Lopas and Luke all making strong runs in open play.

Jamie Carr made a good fist of his first game at lock and was very solid on defence and got his ball in the lineout.

Milsie was everywhere taking the ball up and defending well.

Loose forward trio dominated Burnside’s loosies and special mention must be made of young Pele Antonio at No6. Capt of Shirley Boys High first 15 last season.

First Premier game and he was simply outstanding. Never missed a tackle and support play of a high standard. We look forward to seeing more of him.

Nick Annear in his 97th Premier game gave quick service.

Josh Ree produced his best performance and was “Player of the Match.”

Josh has been a very good Colts player for the Club but has had several injuries in the last couple of years preventing him from consistent game time.

With confidence and remaining injury free on this performance the important position of first five is his. His long raking kicks and confidence taking on the line produced a match winning performance.

Will Gaulter and Sam Tatupu both were dangerous in the midfield, straightening up the attack and running hard. Gaulter particularly so in the first half.

Wings, Blake Thompson and Mike Molloy together with Fullback Coke Spinks had few opportunities but all worked hard on defence when required. The wings covering was particularly good.

Evergreen prop Jack Burmester got on the field and more than held his own in the scrum. If he stays fit and is keen he will be a real asset going forward.

Burnside were hammered in the penalty count 19-6, so it was good to see Christchurch discipline at a good level.

Players unavailable: Jason Spicer, Josh McKay, Charlie Barrett all with injuries.

Dom Brankin was at a wedding.

Next week offers a greater challenge with the ‘Crying Towel”

Ironically a trophy played for that neither team wants in it’s cabinet.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK:

“The ultimate measure of a player is not where he stands or what he does in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands and what he contributes at times of challenge.” That challenge comes next week in the form of Linwood at Linfield Park.

“Run until you are buggered and then increase the pace.”

“Give em the Axe.”

David Stuthridge

Sponge

CFC Netball Update

This weekend netball gets underway finally after what seems months of organising from the committee/coaches/managers. Will be great to see the sea of red and black down at Hagley Courts.  Hopefully the weather is as nice as last weekend.

We are proud to announce three senior teams representing CFC Netball this season.

CFC A - Senior 2 Grade

Coach: Nic Samson & Sarah Knox

Charlotte Chambers

Georgia Galbraith

Sophie Hardie

Phoebe Harris

Sjaan Hungerford

Rochelle Macefield

Mady Parker

Selina Ripley

Lily Washington

Olivia Williams

CFC B - Challenge 2 Grade

Coach: Keely Kira

Sasha Bruce

Isabelle Coates

Rachel Henderson

Francie Hooper

Jackie Little

Nicola MacKintosh

Rachel Maw

Kate OCallaghan

Abby Pelenato

Gabby Tupu

CFC C - Open League

Coach: Georgia Galbraith

Tagai Elisara

Laura Gallaway

Yasmin Miller

Mallory Oram

Savannah Redmond

Sharon Sanders

Maysie Scott

Emma Strachan

Tagan Stringer

CFC Community Club Administrator

 

 

We are looking for a skilled administrator, with a great attitude. For more info or to apply, please go directly via the Seek Job Listing Community Club Administrator Job in Canterbury - Click Here

CFC Junior Corner

Well, the season may not have officially started, but it’s certainly all go for anyone involved in organising in getting the season underway!

Team lists were issued at the start of ANZAC weekend, and with the exception of the U6 grade, all teams are now finalised. We will be shuffling the U6 teams slightly to cater for coaching availability and late registrations, but these minor tweaks will be sent out to relevant families this week and are not major.

Tranings for some teams are starting this week and for others, will kick into gear once the kids go back to school next week. Speak to your team coach and manager for more info or if any issues, get in touch with cfcjuniors@christchurchpark.co.nz

Gear Bags:

These can be collected on 30th April. The registered team manager or coach should collect and will ensure jerseys etc are handed out to all families. These contain playing shirts for the season with mouthguards and rugby balls for the players to keep. Players are required to provide their own shorts and socks.

For anyone needing new shorts and socks, please go online to order via the CFC Gear Store: Christchurch FC Sports gear Store | Impakt

CFC Coaches Mandatory Small Black Course – Mon 2nd May

ALL Coaches MUST complete an annual Small Blacks Coaching Course. The CFC based course is being held at our clubrooms this Monday, times and grades as follows:

5:45pm – 6:45pm - Rippa, U8 & U9 Coaches

7:00pm – 8:00pm – U10, U11, U12 & U13

There are a few remaining courses at other locations for those unable to attend on Monday – all registered coaches would have been asked to pick a course on registration. If you are planning on coaching and still need to register, please complete the below link before Sunday 1st May.

https://www.sporty.co.nz/viewform/182641

Upcoming Events:

•           Sat 30th April 9am-12pm – CFC, Sumner & New Brighton Pre-Season Friendlies, Location 250 Westminster Street (CFC Home Grounds). Draw details will be sent out by Thursday/Friday to team coaches and managers. Coffee van will be on site!

•           Sat 30th April 12:45pm – CFC Prem Women Guard of Honour – we invite all our juniors to wear their Red & Black and stay onto to cheer our CFC Women’s team onto the field this Saturday. Anyone who would like to take part, please meet us by the tunnel entrance by Field 1. The bar will be open and we hope our families stay on to support our senior teams.

•           Mon 2nd May – Small Black Coaching Course, CFC Clubrooms.

•           Sat 7th May – First official game of the season. Draw details can be found via our CFC App and are usually loaded by Wednesday afternoon, prior to the game. We encourage team coaches and managers to re-check this the Friday before however as in the current einvornment, there are last minute changes and movements to both ground locations and teams forefiting due to covid.

•           No Play - Queens Birthday weekend (4th June), 16th & 23rd July

•           Season End Date - TBA

Baby News

Justin & Hannah losefo welcomed their latest instalment to their whanau. Benji-Mino John losefo born on Monday 26 April 2022, exactly one year after Justin’s beloved father passed away. Mum and baby are doing well and the entire Iosefo are super proud of their wee man. Welcome to the Christchurch Football Club Benji-Mino, and big congratulations to the Iosefo whanau.

Article added: Thursday 28 April 2022