It feels as though we’ve waited an age for National League rugby to return to the Haberden. Our 1st XV last played there on 26 April against Westcombe Park – a full twenty weeks ago!

During the summer the Greene King IPA Haberden has been a hive of activity, with significant facility upgrades: the external refurbishment of the 1974 Suite, a revamped club entrance, a new ticket booth (more on that tomorrow), an extended overflow car park, brand-new container stands, and smart new perimeter fencing.

We’re also delighted to welcome Barenbrug as our Official Seed Partner for the 2025/26 season and beyond. Their generous supply of RPR Sport seed has allowed our grounds team to fully rejuvenate the playing surfaces ahead of the campaign.

Last weekend saw league rugby return as our Rovers hosted the Clacton Kestrels (read the full report: Match Report | Bury St Edmunds 4s v Clacton Kestrels). Our Minis were also back in training.

This weekend brings even more action:

Men’s 1st XV – host Oundle on Saturday, 3 pm kick-off. The Peterborough side are on the rise, having cruised to the Regional 1 South East title last season. Our men will be aiming for their first win of the campaign and a full 80-minute performance.
Match Sponsored by Steve Lumley Planing
Charity Partner Restore

Women’s 1st XV – begin life in Championship North 1 with an away trip to Cheltenham Tigers, last year’s North League champions. The squad features seven debutants after a strong recruitment drive. Captain Chantelle makes her 99th appearance, while Lucy Kerr extends her club record with cap number 103.

Men’s 2nd XV – travel to Shelford for their opening league fixture, buoyed by an impressive friendly win over OAs last week. The head-to-head with Shelford is finely balanced: six wins to Shelford, seven to Bury, with the last encounter decided by just three points.

Men’s 4th XV – awarded a five-point league win after Mersea Island Rhinos were unable to field a side. They will instead visit Ipswich 3rd XV for a friendly, with Scott Rannochan naming an experimental squad packed with bench depth.

Sunday Youth & Colts – the U16 girls travel to North Walsham for a friendly; the U14 boys head to Diss; and the Colts face Stowmarket, lending players if needed to ensure the match goes ahead.

Our Minis will be training again on Sunday morning (U6–U12, 10 am). New players are warmly welcome – come and join the fun! For details, email Minischair@bserufc.co.uk