Deck the Halls with Rugby Balls

As the end of the year approaches, Rear Admiral Steve Moorhouse CBE, has taken a moment to celebrate the efforts of the Royal Navy Rugby Union and to wish everyone a Merry Christmas.

Leave and the festive season will be soon upon us so it's the ideal time to consider the remarkable achievements of the RNRU this season. We've introduced Paul ‘Sweeney’ Todd as the full time Rugby Development Officer who in turn has qualified 27 coaches, with two involved in the U23 Inter Service (IS) victory and another two appointed to coach the newly formed Regional Select team in the Inverdale Challenge. The rest are making significant contributions at Unit level or within community clubs like Devonport Services and United Services Portsmouth. Great work RDO!

This season has seen the successful restructure of The Inverdale Challenge, introducing the combined geographic regions squad, known as the ‘Regional Select’ XV. This team will face the Royal Marines (RM) and Fleet Air Arm (FAA) in the second stage of the Challenge. Early indications show this initiative has been a success, and we continue to develop ways to increase playing opportunities at the pinnacle and grassroots level of the Community area.

We also introduced the Tri Service 7’s tournament at Petersfield RFC, which has proven to be a viable concept and will become a staple in the 7’s season for all three services at the Community level. Despite these positive changes, workforce availability remains a key challenge against an ever-increasing operational tempo. However, with additional support from the RFU and continued engagement, we are committed to implementing new initiatives to grow the game in the Community area.

The development of rugby within the Navy is progressing impressively, with key figures like LET Heather Addison-Prout and Lt Cdr Jane West leading the charge. Heather’s acceptance into the 'Inspire' RFU Leadership Development Programme highlights her potential as a future leader in the sport, focusing on women under 25. Meanwhile, Jane's acceptance into the RFU Leadership Development Programme for senior executive and leadership roles underscores her readiness to take on significant responsibilities within the game. Together, their achievements reflect the Navy's commitment to fostering leadership and excellence in rugby. Congratulations Heather and Jane and we wish you all the very best as you participate in these prestigious programmes.

I would like to let you know about the new Royal Naval Association-sponsored United Kingdom Armed Forces Player of the Match trophy which has been established in memory of Steffan Rees. Steffan played in the UKAF team who travelled to France for the International Defence Rugby World Cup and sadly lost his life there. While it is a sombre note, it is important to honour his memory and let everyone know about this tribute. The trophy was awarded at the UKAF v Germany fixture at Kingsholm in November. The poignant moment was heightened by the attendance of Stef’s dad and Aberystwyth teammates who made the long journey to Gloucester. 13 RNRU Men’s players and 1 coach were in the UKAF Squad for the remembrance game against Germany and the Royal Navy contributed a further 6 Women’s players to the UKAF squad against Ealing Trailfinders A. To finish the year 4 RNRU Women’s 7s players travelled to Dubai 7s in the UKAF 7s team in December.

I’d like to highlight the recent success of the U23s as Inter-Service Champions. Led by Head Coach Ben Priddey, the TSG introduced 20 new players into the IS Squad. The U23s regained the title of Inter-service champions with a close 24 - 24 encounter against the RAF at Burnaby Road in November, before delivering a brilliant performance against the Army in Aldershot winning the game 19 - 6 to claim the Inter-service championship crown. The squad worked hard on defence throughout the season, which paid dividends resulting in captain Alex Einchcomb lifting the trophy.

Elsewhere, our players have excelled, with Sam Matavesi playing for Lyon in the French Top 14 league and representing Fiji in the Autumn Nations series and 5 others running out at Championship and National 1 clubs across the UK. 2 of our Women’s players are playing in the PWR and a further 3 at Championship level.

Looking ahead to the new year there are some challenging fixtures for our representative sides (Senior, Men, Senior Women and Mariners) as they start their annual pilgrimage to the Inter Service Championship. The fixture list is updated on the website and monthly via our social media channels.

The 2025 Inter Service Championship RNRU v RAFRU still needs to be nailed down and details will follow soon, but Army v Navy is set:

• Saturday, May 3rd – British Army v Royal Navy, Allianz Twickenham Stadium

For more information, visit: Official Home of Inter Service Championship Rugby | Inter Services Rugby

As we celebrate the holiday season, I want to extend my warmest wishes and heartfelt gratitude to our entire rugby family. This includes our dedicated staff, volunteers, coaching and management teams, referees, the Committee, Vice-Presidents, Trustees, sponsors, kit providers, our loyal supporters and of course the players. We recognise your contribution and wish you well.

On behalf of the Executive Committee, I wish everyone a joyful Christmas and a refreshing break. Expect to hear fixture updates throughout the season and watch out for notices for volunteer roles across the Navy Rugby family.

Warm regards,

Rear Admiral Steve Moorhouse CBE
Chair, Royal Navy Rugby Union