2025 Season Recap: A Year of Growth and Achievement
- Our coaches and managers pulled together to create a positive, inclusive environment for players to grow and thrive.
- Standout performances at local tournaments and teenage players earning selection for representative squads.
- Family and club days saw fantastic turnout, strengthening our ties within Southbridge and the wider rugby community.
- Strong volunteer support — thank you, parents and whānau, for your dedication on the sidelines and behind the scenes!
Looking Forward: Big Plans for 2026
- Junior Sub-Committee Structure: We’re working to bring more clarity and efficiency to our sub-committee, clarifying roles and responsibilities to serve our families better.
- Upskilling for Coaches and Players: Next year, we plan to invest more time in coaching clinics, player development sessions, and resources, ensuring every team benefits from the latest training and support.
- Reaffirming ties with ERSU and CRFU: We’re excited to collaborate more closely with Ellesmere Rugby Sub-Union (ERSU), Canterbury Rugby Football Union (CRFU), and neighbouring clubs, opening up opportunities for shared events, trainings, and pathways for our players and coaches.
- Teenage Grades: A major focus is re-establishing teenage grades at Southbridge. We’ll be reaching out to the community, recruiting players, and working with local schools and other clubs to offer robust competition and support for our teens to stay active and connected through rugby. If you know of local players, let them know to sign up with SRFC when registrations open in February 2026.
- If you’re keen to get amongst the coaching of teenage grades, or if you have questions, please get in touch!
- Community Engagement: More family days, club nights, and community events — all with the goal of making Southbridge RFC the heart of our local sporting life.
What grade does my child play in 2026?
Children play in the grade equivalent to the the year they are in at school (dependant on their chronological age as at 1 April each year). Please register on this basis.
If your child does not fall into the birthdate range for their school year, please talk to us about dispensation. Dispensations will only be considered upon enquiry and will be granted at the discretion of the Club and Ellesmere Rugby Sub Union.
Should you have any enquiries regarding grading, please contact us at jabsrfc@gmail.com
How You Can Help
- Volunteer for coaching, managing, or supporting our teams — every bit counts!
- Encourage your child to invite friends along and spread the word about what our Club can offer juniors and teenagers.
- Join our sub-committee or help out at club events. Your ideas and energy will help shape our future.
- Stay in touch - follow our socials for regular updates, and get in touch with your feedback or questions.