Every year, this message is a privilege to write. But this season carries a particular sense of pride. Chinnor remains one of the most unique clubs in English rugby: fiercely competitive at an elite level in the Champ, yet still unmistakably a thriving, inclusive and community driven club. Very few clubs manage to hold both identities with such authenticity and even fewer manage to connect them so deeply to their local area.

That connection has been visible all summer. The help and support that we’ve been offered is at times overwhelming. Visits from the mayor, local MP’s and the hosting of many events, the World Cup games and celebrations, have kept the place ticking over but it’s definitely been missing something. Our new Champ kit, represents our community. The embedded map design celebrates Thame and the surrounding villages. And our recent social posts, out and about meeting supporters of all ages, show that Chinnor is not just a rugby club. It’s part of the fabric of this region.

A weekend that sums up Chinnor

This coming weekend captures everything that makes our club special.

On Friday night, our Men’s 1st XV host the most decorated club in English rugby - a Premiership giant - in what will be another milestone in our history. These occasions remind us how far we’ve come and how proud we are to represent our community on the Champ stage.

Then, on Sunday, Kingsey Road welcomes back the full complement of minis and juniors for their first weekend of the season. Hundreds of young players, families, coaches and volunteers returning with energy and excitement of what’s to come.

Elite ambition and grassroots passion — side by side. I’m not naïve enough to think it’s always plain sailing but there is a genuine desire to make all aspects of the club function to our full potential.

Challenges ahead — and our response

Growth brings challenges, and our biggest one this season is improving floodlighting across the site. At the AGM we launched Let There Be Light, a major fundraising project to upgrade junior training lights, increase electrical supply into the club and further enhance Pitch 1 illumination as part of our continued Champ Rugby participation.

It’s a significant undertaking — but this club has never shied away from ambitious projects. We won’t start now.

A club recognised — and a club growing - Matchday attendances continue to rise, and the atmosphere at Kingsey Road grows with them. The noise, the warmth, the sense of belonging. It’s becoming one of the defining features of our home games.

Being recognised as Champ Club of the Year, for our achievements on and off the field, was a proud moment for everyone involved. It was recognition not just of performance, but of a culture that’s pushing and improving.

Thank you - To everyone who has helped over the off season - thank you. Sponsors, members, volunteers, players, staff.

From watering pitches to weeding paths, painting the clubhouse to building new stands - the list is long and endless, and the passion behind it is humbling. This club improves every year because people care enough to make it better.

To all our players - Many of you have endured a tough pre season, and the RFU’s scheduling delay has pushed matches back for everyone except our Men’s 1st XV. Your commitment and resilience have been outstanding.

We wish you all an enjoyable, competitive and rewarding season.
One ask: keep our standards high and live the rugby values. They define us.

Let’s not forget - 26 Teams, One Club.

To our members and supporters

We cannot wait to welcome you back — to hear the matchday roar, to feel the buzz around the clubhouse, and to see a full marquee for hospitality.
One ask: continue the warm welcome we’ve become known for and bring a friend to experience Chinnor for the first time. Word of mouth remains our greatest strength.

Enjoy the season. Enjoy the rugby. Enjoy being part of this remarkable community.
All the very best.
Nick