As we draw the curtain on the 2025/26 season, it’s a moment to reflect with real pride on
what has been one of the most competitive and characterful campaigns in recent Ditchling
RFC history. Finishing 5th in Counties 2 Sussex after 11 wins, 1 draw and 6 losses is a
testament to the commitment of every player, coach, volunteer and supporter who has worn the badge with passion this year.

On the Pitch – A Season of Grit and Growth
This squad has shown enormous resilience. We’ve stood toetotoe with the biggest and most physical sides in the league, and more often than not we’ve come out on top. Our points difference — +264, one of the best in the division — tells the story of a team that plays with ambition, pace and heart.

Some standout memories:
- A strong run-in, including big home performances against Crawley and Brighton II.
- A fiercely contested away fixture at Seaford, where the boys showed huge character
despite adversity.
- A developing backline that has produced some of the most exciting attacking rugby
we’ve seen at The Sty in years.
- A forward pack that continues to punch above its weight, technically sharp and
relentless in the tight.
This is a squad that has matured, bonded and raised standards week after week.

Player Development & Club Culture
One of the most pleasing aspects of the season has been the growth of our younger players
and the integration of new faces into the senior setup. The culture in the club is strong —
supportive, competitive, and built on the values that make Ditchling RFC special.
Training numbers have been consistently high, and the commitment shown on cold midweek nights has translated directly into performances on Saturdays.

Off the Pitch – A Club Moving Forward
This season hasn’t just been about rugby. It’s been about community.
- We’ve strengthened our ties with local partners and sponsors.
- We’ve delivered memorable social events that have brought the whole club together.
- We’ve continued to invest in facilities and long-term planning to secure the future of
rugby in Ditchling.

The support from families, volunteers, and the wider village has been exceptional. Whether
you’ve run the bar, washed kit, driven players, or simply shouted from the touchline — you
are the heartbeat of this club.

Looking Ahead
The foundations are now firmly in place for an even stronger 2026/27 season. With the talent in this squad, the coaching structure we have, and the spirit that runs through the club, there is no ceiling on what we can achieve.
Recruitment is ongoing, planning is underway, and the ambition is clear: to push higher up
Counties 2 Sussex and continue building a club that the whole community is proud of.

Thank You
To the players: your commitment has been outstanding. To the coaches: your work behind the scenes is invaluable. To the volunteers: we simply couldn’t function without you. To the
supporters: you make The Sty a special place to play rugby.
It has been an honour to serve as Chair this season. Here’s to a summer of rest, recovery and
preparation — and to coming back even stronger.
Up the Ditch! Malc Pedder Chair, Ditchling RFC