Welcome to 2011!!

Well once again rugby is nearly here and with the World Cup to be held in New Zealand this year that means the domestic season throughout the country will start early.

This year the Darryl Phillips Motor Company seniors will once again be coached by Dave McCrea and Jason Feutz, and trainings have started on Tuesday and Thursday nights at the Celtic grounds at 6:30 so if you’re interested in playing senior rugby turn up on Wednesdays and you will be made welcome. For any questions contact Dave McCrea on 0274753002.

Pre-season games have been organized with the 1^st against McKenzie Country for the Mick Casey Memorial Trophy to be played in Fairlie on Sunday 6 March. The following week will be against Timaru Celtic on Sunday 13 March with the seniors and senior b’s playing. The last game is Friday 25 March under lights versus Prebbleton. This will lead to a week of with the senior competition starting on 2 April.

The senior b’s will once again be sponsored by Braided Rivers Restaurant & Bar, Speight’s Alehouse and also Widespan Sheds. Their season starts on Sunday 13 March against Timaru Celtic and this will be followed by a game against Tinwald on Saturday 19 March. They will be coached by Pete Gowans again. Anyone interested in playing contact Chicken on 027 255 1025.

JAB registration will be held Friday 25 February 5pm at the Celtic grounds. Contact Paddy Strange 027 491 5259. A sausage sizzle will also on the go.

This year the club is holding its 90^th Jubilee at Easter weekend. The Friday night will be registration night followed by a welcoming speech, the following Saturday will consist of lunch followed by all teams playing at the Celtic grounds and then a formal dinner at the racecourse. Sunday will be mass followed by roll call and bbq lunch. Registration fee is $10 and Saturday night’s tea is $65 which includes 3 course meal and band. Contact Kevin Hurley on 021 542 461 for tickets.

After the AGM the committee was formed with Paul Summerfield as president, Kevin Donaldson vice-president, Secretary Stefan Brook, Treasurer Greg Wall, Club Captain Gary Casey, JAB Club Captain Paddy Strange. Also on the committee Mark O’Grady, Pete Restieaux, Richie McCrea, Warren McKenzie, Mike Hanham, Kevin Hurley, Alan Harvey, Phil Prendergast, Juan Grey, Mieke Brook and Rob Harnett.

Remember to check our website, www.ashburtonceltic.co.nz for any updates or news.

Any enquiries about the above, contact Stefan Brook on 307 1072.

Next committee meeting is on 21th February, 7:30pm.