As I stood on the touchline yesterday before the game, I was filled with immense pride as I looked around the side of the pitch as the players ran on to a huge cheer (and drum beat!). It showed to me what a special Club Sevenoaks RFC is. As such, it would be remiss of me not to thank each and every person and group that has been on our journey.
Firstly, to the players, who have worked so hard throughout the season and in the past three years, I say a big thank you and well done. Each and every player who has played in the Senior Squad over the past three years can say they have played a part in our promotion. It's not a 1st XV promotion - this is a Squad promotion! To have so many of the Squad come and support there yesterday, past and present, was a very proud moment.
That tasted good! Adam Bowman celebrates after the final whistle. Photo Credit: David Purday
To the coaching staff and medical department - days like yesterday make it all worthwhile and I thank you for being central to creating the environment and structure that we strive for and enables the players to thrive. To have all of our teams in the top two positions in their league shows that we must be doing something right. Your hard work and dedication is hugely appreciated by me and all of the players.
Our opposition this season has been the toughest we have ever had. Medway, Camberley and Brighton pushed us all the way and I am not sure the league will see something like that for long time. As always, we have enjoyed visiting each ground and hope that our visitors to the Paddock have come away feeling like that have been at a good Rugby Club. Our best wishes to all of the sides next year and of course to Brighton Blues in the play-off - go and win it and we will hopefully see you next season.
Thank you to all of our incredibly loyal sponsors - we hope that you are as proud of our Club as we are. We can't achieve what we do without your support and from all the players, coaches and committee, I say a big thank you.
The Oaks coaching and medical team, as well as Director of Rugby Roger McKerlie, celebrate after the final whistle. Photo Credit: David Purday
A big thanks as well to the Committee for their unwavering support - we are very lucky as a Club to have a group that is driven, so supportive and has created an environment which is professional with a small 'p'. Long may it continue and I promise to not contact you for the next 48 hours...!
Lastly, but most importantly, to every single Club member and supporter. You have been outstanding this season, as you are every season. From the ball boys and girls, to the Junior coaches, Bar staff, Colin, Diane, our Club photographer David Purday, our band of helpers who get the pitch ready on a match day, Howard Pearl who is a constant source of knowledge on the league and player registration, the Oaks Club - I could go on and on...But each and every person who has stood at the Paddock, checked our social media updates during a match, read our match reports on the website, I say a full hearted THANK YOU from each and every one of us. We are extremely proud and privileged to represent you and we can't wait to see you again next season.
Have a great summer.
UP THE OAKS!
Adam