With a new year and new committee comes new opportunities for the club that hoists its sails in Seaford.
Driven by a desire to return stronger following a short stint on the sidelines throughout COVID years, the Pirates are back sailing once more in 2024 across both Junior and Senior competitions.
As preseason gets well and truly underway, we caught up with Southern Districts Club President James Rice on the return of the Pirates.
RV: It’s been a tough couple of years for Southern Districts but with a new year comes plenty of excitement! What does it mean for the club to return in 2024 across both Junior and Senior age groups?
Rice: We are a club that has been around for over 50 years and for our community to see us building once more is something that drives the committee, coaches and supporters. We are building and putting plans in place to be sustainable for years to come.
RV: What are you and your committee hoping to achieve in 2024 both on and off-field?
Rice: Most of us grew up around rugby and look back on our memories fondly. We want to ensure we provide a fun, safe and inclusive environment for a new generation to enjoy the magic the sport of rugby can bring to a community. With five junior teams and a senior team to support our evergreen Masters is the goal I would love to see us achieve in 2024.
RV: How has player and coach recruitment been so far for season 2024?
Rice: We lost the trust we had built in our player and parent base with our previous administration and have been working hard on communicating our plan for 2024 in hope that old players come back while also attracting new players as well. Registrations are now open, with coaches in place for both Juniors (U6-U14) and Senior Men’s with Matt Grenfell but are always looking for more help! No matter what your experience, please don’t be shy - we are always looking for more help at Southern Districts.
RV: With pre-season now underway, how are the current crop of Pirates travelling?
Rice: We have had interest from all around and are building towards our first preseason game in Mid-March. Matt Grenfell is taking charge in 2024 with a strong support crew to create a core group who are determined to have fun along the way.
RV: How can interested players, supporters or parents get involved with Southern Districts?
Rice: Interested players, supporters, parents or volunteers can contact Southern Districts through our website or directly through email or via mobile.
Southern Districts Club President - James Rice | M: 0402744353, E: sdrcpresident@gmail.com
Southern Districts Seniors - Matt Grenfell | M: 0412651076.
Southern Districts Juniors - Peter Oliver | M: 0447 342 226.
