THE chairman of Helensburgh Rugby Club says he “has no doubt” the club will grow even stronger in the next 12 months after a hugely positive 2023 for the local team and its players.

Euan Ramsay says the club has “progressed massively” at all age group levels, both on and off the pitch.

The past year has seen the joint Helensburgh and Loch Lomond senior first XV win promotion, the formation of a second XV combining the strengths of the two clubs, a Murrayfield appearance for the under-16 squad comprising players from both Helensburgh RFC and Lomond School, and the reformation of the club’s women’s and girls section.

Euan said: “This year as a club we have progressed massively - from our under-4s, who bring in ex players and their kids to the club, right through to our great minis/micros section who have seen great growth this year, and our youth sections who have fought hard to make some great achievements, including our U16s making it to Murrayfield.

“Our seniors have achieved success, albeit after a tough start to the season, and have proven that we have a foundation of a great team for the future – with a special thanks to those involved in bringing back a great 2nd XV. 

“Lastly our reformed women’s and girls section which with the great spirit of the club will grow to bring further achievements to the club this season.

“As a club we have grown so much within the committee and volunteer side, and I thank everyone who gives up their time to achieve the same goal of making this club the club of choice within the local community. 

“We have developed a strong club development plan, pushed for grant funding and reintroduced a community coach in schools.

Next year I have no doubt we will grow stronger as a club, alongside Loch Lomond RFC who have provided vital support throughout this season and last season.”

The Lomond and Helensburgh adult first XV, who ended the old year with a comfortable 47-0 win at home to Paisley in West Division 2, will have to wait until January 13 to resume their league programme with a trip to Coatbridge to face Waysiders/Drumpellier.

However, long before then, there will be a chance for players old and new to dust off the Hogmanay cobwebs with a social game at Ardencaple on New Year’s Day.

The clubhouse bar will be open from 12 noon on January 1 with the game kicking off at 1pm.