The Problem
We seem to be in a vicious circle that needs unlocking.
Our four pitches at the rugby club all have various drainage problems due to the clay base (they used to be farmers’ fields) – the result is with the increased rainfall this year, the pitches are waterlogged, matches are canceled, there is less enjoyment for all, there is no footfall or income coming into the club.
It is fantastic having access to an all-weather pitch up at the AFC, but this is an expense to the club and as a result, is impacting on our community spirit.
We need to break this vicious cycle, with global warming rainfall is predicted to increase year on year, and so we need a strategy to ensure the rugby club is sustainable over the longer term. The club committee are working hard and are committed to this aim. Despite limited funding available we are implementing the initial stages as set out below and we welcome everyone’s support.
What's the way forward?
In simple terms... Improve the drainage of the pitches
We have employed a professional specialist called Stri who has been advising the grounds team on what we need to do.
We met them on the 10th April and they dug some trial pits and are currently providing a specification. We are starting some work at the end of May on pitch 1 which will be out of action for a few months.
The plan is then to move on to the second, third and fourth pitches albeit this will depend on the funding we can raise.
Community Impact
Rugby means so much to so many in Harrogate that its vital we are in a position to put on as many games as possible in the 2024/2025 season.
We want to see more faces like this
And this
and a lot less of this!
Many of us have benefited from the fantastic things that rugby can do. Help us to keep that alive and to continue for years to come!
How you can play your part
There are four simple ways to help us reach our target, and make this project a reality.
1. Make a pledge. Don’t delay if you’re going to support us because momentum is key to our success!
2. Spread the word. Share our project on your social media pages and tell the world to get behind us! The more people we reach, the more support we will get.
3. Offer rewards. Get involved if you are a local business by donating things we can offer to our supporters. We will give you a shout out!
4. Fundraise for us. If you want to run your own fundraiser – maybe a sponsored activity or similar – use the 'contact project' button at the top of our page to let us know. Setting up your own page only takes a few minutes and you won’t need any bank details. Just a fun idea!