It was a triple celebration for Datchworth RFC last Saturday. The Women’s XV (the Ferns) and the Men’s 1st XV won their respective League titles, thereby both securing promotion, and the Men’s 2nd XV, having already reached their Merit Table Cup Final on 25th April, entertained the spectators with a 51-36 win against Royston 2s.

The Ferns and the Men’s 1st XV both played away at Tabard RFC. The Ferns were up first and completed their season with an emphatic 50-10 win. To the team it felt like a home game with the packed touch line support. Although the Ferns only had to turn up to secure the League title, they wanted to conclude the season undefeated. They did so in style. Just 18 months ago, the team were struggling for numbers but they have since made remarkable progress to finish with a perfect season. During this period Head Coach Phil Solomon (with his assistants) has been a huge influence. With strong recruitment expected over the summer, the Ferns will look to make a major impact in League NC2 next season.

After cheering on the Ferns, the Men’s 1st XV took to the field themselves and, after an even first half, ran away with the game to win 38-14. 18 year-old prodigy Troy Sullivan scored 33 points with 5 tries and 4 conversions but he would be the first to praise the vital support of his teammates. This win means that the team are Herts Counties 2 Champions with a game to spare. Therefore the final home match against second-placed Royston on 11th April will be a fitting celebration for the Club and its loyal supporters.

The Head Coach James Panter and his assistants will be delighted to have steered the team to promotion in his first season at the helm. His enthusiasm for Datchworth’s “One-Club” ethos - men’s, women’s, youth and mini rugby - is infectious. The mutual cross-section rapport throughout the Club has been evident all season.

Last Saturday was not just about 3 convincing wins. It was a reflection of a united Club moving rapidly forward. Titles secured, promotion earned and a shared sense that, for Datchworth RFC a village club with a proud history, the future looks very bright.