Hampstead Ladies Rugby Club - Recently Updated Pages

Your availability

Majamelendez — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 05:19:43 CST

Which games are you available for? Place a 'YES' or 'NO' next to your name and each game.

	06/12/09 Possible friendly ?	13/12/09 Tottonians HOME	10/01/10 Marlow AWAY	17/01/10 Lewes HOME	24/01/10 Barnes AWAY	31/01/10 Possible Romford friendly AWAY	14/02/10 Guildford HOME	21/02/10 Lewes AWAY	7/03/10 Sutton & Epsom AWAY	28/03/10 Old Cats AWAY
Clea Big Nuts	No	No	No	No	No		No	No	YES!	YES!
Eleanor Bowden	Yes	yes	yes yes yes	yes	yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Alex Bowtell		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Bronwen Cassidy	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Laura Cheng	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No
Natalie Clarke		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Marcella Collins		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Debbie Crossan	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Keshia Evans		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Sylvie Fail		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Kate Gallagher
Elle G-T	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No
Sophie Harris
Anna Jones		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Miranda Kaufmann	No	No	?	?	?		?		?	?
Angela Kwok
Emma Lanman		Yes	No	No	Yes		Yes	No	No	Yes
Betony Lloyd		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Nadine Mason		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Diana McMerty		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Maja Melendez	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Ella Mitchell		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	yes	Yes	Yes
Astrid O'reilly		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Maybe	Maybe	Yes	Yes
Anita Oliver		Yes
Anna Paley-Smith
Fleur Pijpers	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Catherine Porritt		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Hannah Stephen
Lizi Wharton
Sarah Whittaker		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Kate Woodward		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

News

Majamelendez — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:15:17 CST

	Congratulations ladies, after beating Old Caterhamians 50-5 at home on Sunday 4th October, we are now sitting top of the league.

Hampstead Ladies calendar available Friday 4th December

Hampstead Ladies Rugby Club Official Calenderer 09/10 out this Friday 4th December
RRP £7 with £1.50 from every sale going to charity.

Miss it miss out!

Hampstead Ladies go top of the league!!

Congratulations ladies, after beating Old Caterhamians 50-5 at home on Sunday 4th October, we are now sitting top of the league.

New website for International women's rugby news and views

	www.scrumqueens.com was launched in 2009 with the aim of offering in-depth quality coverage of women’s rugby at international level. The site provides coverage of major international women’s competitions such as the Six Nations, the European Championships, the Nations Cup and the Women’s Rugby World Cup and its qualifying competitions, and focuses predominantly on International 15 and 7 aside teams and competitions. It also aims to cover smaller lesser profiled competitions around the globe.

www.scrumqueens.com was launched in 2009 with the aim of offering in-depth quality coverage of women’s rugby at international level. The site provides coverage of major international women’s competitions such as the Six Nations, the European Championships, the Nations Cup and the Women’s Rugby World Cup and its qualifying competitions, and focuses predominantly on International 15 and 7 aside teams and competitions. It also aims to cover smaller lesser profiled competitions around the globe.

Local derby won!!

Hampstead ladies stormed to victory in their first game of the season against local rivals Kilburn Cosmos. The Cosmos celebrated the opening of their new clubhouse in style, inviting a range of teams to come and enjoy a day of rugby followed by bbq shenannegans. Hampstead came up trumps beating the hosts 34-5 in a hard fough match which meant they secured some silverware which they will hopefully be defending the same time next year!

First match of the season 09/10.
On saturday we will be taking on their local adversaries Kilburn Cosmo's. Hampstead have been invited to play them to celebrate the opening of their new club house and facilities. This will be our first run out after a long preseason, I am sure that everyone will be itching to get the ball back in their hands and to nail that first tackle of the season.

Lets make sure that we have a great start to the season and play some good quality team rugby :) Plus lets add a bit more silverware to the trophy cabinet!!

Looking forward to a storming season ladies!!

New committee for 2009 season
last night, we voted it our new committee who will be doing us proud this coming season. Position are as follows:

Joint Captain/vice captain: Marcella Collins & Ella Mitchell
Club secretary: Debbie Crossan
Treasurer: Fleur Pijpers
Fixtures secretary: Sarah Whittaker
Social secretaries: Keisha Evans/Sylvie Fail
Web/kit officer: Maja Melendez

Good luck to you all, you have all the teams support!

Fixtures 2009 - 2010

Majamelendez — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 04:20:09 CST

Date	Opposition	Photos	Type	Location	Result	Points for	Points against
22nd August 2009	Hammersmith		Friendly	AWAY	CANCELLED
5th September 09	Kilburn Cosmos	here	Friendly	AWAY	WON	34	5
20th September 09	Teddington		Friendly	AWAY	WON	38	7
26th September 09	Rosslyn Park		Friendly	AWAY	LOST	0	12
4th October 09	Old Caterhamians		League	HOME	WON	50	5
11th October 09	Tottonians		League	AWAY	WON	50	5
18th October 09	Wimbledon		Friendly	AWAY	LOST	32	5
25th October 09	Marlow		League	HOME	POSTPONED	--	--
25th October 09	Hammersmith & Fulham		Friendly	HOME	WON	31	0
8th November 09	Barnes		League	HOME	WON	61	5
22nd November 09	Guildford		League	AWAY	WON	24	5
29th November 09	Sutton and Epsom		League	HOME	WON	43	5
13th December 09	Tottonians		League	HOME
10th January 2010	Marlow		League	AWAY
17th January 10	Lewes		League	HOME
24th January 10	Barnes		League	AWAY
14th February 10	Guildford		League	HOME
21st February 20	Lewes		League	AWAY
7th March 10	Sutton and Epsom		League	AWAY
28th March 10	Old Caterhamians		League	AWAY

Profiles

KateGallagher — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 14:39:55 CDT

Clea Bigelow-Nuttal

Position:	Fullback
Former clubs:	University of Victoria (B.C.), Vikings, Dijon Gazelles (France), Saint Jean du Falga (France), Oxford University WRFC
Favourite moment:	Winning the 2006 Varsity match
Worst moment:	Losing the British Columbia Provincials to UBC in extra time when our penalty kick bounced off the posts (alternatively, the day I found out that Richie McCaw wasn't single)

Eleanor Bowden

Alex Bowtell

Position:	Flanker
Former clubs:	Sheffield Uni, UWE, Clifton, and wait for it.........Hinckley Town!
Favourite moment:	Streaking in front of my mum - priceless
Worst moment:	That minor placement error at the thingy match earlier this season - we were robbed!

Bronwen Cassidy

Position: Winger

Former clubs:

Favourite moment:

Worst moment:

Laura Cheng

Natalie Clarke

Marcella Collins

Position:	Number 8
Former clubs:	Sheffield University (SULRFC)
Favourite moment:	Flying back from tour to play a league match which we won!
Worst moment:	Passing the ball to the opposition who then went onto score. Doh!

Deborah Crossan

Position:	Second row
Former clubs:	Sheffield University (SULRFC) and Shelford Rugby Club
Favourite moment:	Playing in blue body paint on tour
Worst moment:	Being told that I look like Tom Cruise!

Keshia Evans

Position: Prop

Former clubs:

Favourite moment:

Worst moment:

S.F

Position: Hooker

Former clubs: Bath Uni, Reading ladies

Favourite moment:

Worst moment:

Katie Gallagher

Position:	Back
Former clubs:	Ashbourne
Favourite moment:	Dived and grabbed a player by the boot she fell less than a foot from the try line face down on the ball and lost a tooth
Worst moment:	Having the Boyne Fridge land on me

Elle Gaskell-Taylor

Position: Winger

Former clubs:

Favourite moment:

Worst moment:

Anna Jones

Position: Centre

Former clubs: Wasps, UCL

Favourite moment:

Worst moment:

Miranda Kauffman

Position: Flanker

Former clubs:

Favourite moment:

Worst moment:

Emma Lanman

Position:	Second row
Former clubs:
Favourite moment:	Only contact with ball in entire match when it bounced off my head after whistle had blown.
Worst moment:	A very fat lady landing on my ankle!

Betony Lloyd

Lorenza Manzoni

Position:	Flanker
Former clubs:
Favourite moment:	My first ruck in my first ten minutes
Worst moment:	I have a knee as fat as a water melon and all I can think about is coming back to rugby (even though I normally invent any cheap excuse not to go to training)

Nadine Mason

Fly-half

Diana McMerty

Maja Melendez

Position:	Scrum Half
Former clubs:	Bangor University, Rosslyn Park
Favourite moment:	Scoring against Bangor on tour : )
Worst moment:	Dancing on torn knee ligaments on tour in Bath - NAUGHTY TEAM MATES!!

Emma Middleton

Ella Mitchell

Position:	Loosehead Prop
Former clubs:	Brecon, Kettering, Eaton Manor, Bankcroft
Favourite moment:	Scoring my first (and only) try for Hampstead
Worst moment:	After my first match, when I couldn't walk up or down stairs for a week without extreme pain!!

Astrid O'reilly

Anna Paley-Smith

Position:	Centre
Former clubs:	Manchester and Salford Universities Officer Training Corps
Favourite moment:	Grasping the concept of throwing the ball backwards only.
Worst moment:	A tendancy to throw the ball a tad too low.

Fleur Pijpers

Position:	Second Row
Former clubs:	UCL, German Swiss International School
Favourite moment:	Scoring a try from the half-way line
Worst moment:	Being sin binned for fighting & having a scrum collapse on my arm

Cathy Porritt

Position:

Former clubs:

Favourite moment:

Worst moment:

Hannah Stephen

Sarah Whittaker

Position:

Former clubs:

Favourite moment:

Worst moment:

Kate Woodward

Position:	Flanker
Former clubs:	Exeter
Favourite moment:
Worst moment:

Hampstead Ladies Rugby Club

Majamelendez — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 08:12:33 CDT

Hampstead Ladies was born in 2004 due to the enthusiasm of Elle Gaskell-Taylor and the 5 or so local egg throwing enthusiasts who tracked her down. By the end of our first season, we had built up a strong 15 sided team who were performing well in the friendly circuit and creating good links with other local sides. Now in our 5th season, we are a fully integrated part of the club, harassing people both on and off the pitch, at home and abroad.

Whether you are an experienced player, or would like to try rugby for the first time, you will be welcomed with open arms. Having won the league in division South East North 3 in 2007, and coming second in our first season in South East West 2, we are looking forward to seeing what our second season brings!!

Events Calendar

Majamelendez — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 04:39:52 CDT

Not only can you see what exciting things we are up to this year including games and socials, there are also links to photo albums (if in existence) for different events and also attachments (e.g. the amazing tour report) - scroll to the bottom of this page to see those!

Contact Information

Majamelendez — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 04:35:24 CDT

Contact any of the below for more details. You can email them all on hampsteadladies@hotmail.co.uk.

Marcella Collins & Ella Mitchell - Captains
Deborah Crossan - Women's Club Secretary
Maja Melendez - Web and kit officer
Sarah Whittaker - Fixtures Secretary
Fleur Pijpers - Finance Secretary
Keshia Evans - Social Secretary

We also have a Facebook page so sign up to be our friend!

Archive 2008 Match reports

Majamelendez — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 06:54:04 CDT

HAMPSTEAD LADIES VS BARNES (34-0) - 25th January 2009 On a cold and wet day, the Hampstead cohorts descended into the depths of Putney and Barnes in order to meet the foe! It was clear from the outset that the weather was going to play some part in the afternoon's proceedings, but to what degree was only latterly to be observed! By the end of the seventy minutes every single lady was to be carrying in excess of an extra stone in weight, of mud and water that clung to them like an exceptionally cheap Eau De Toilette! We almost caught an amazingly early break, when from our kick off a ruck formed and as the ball passed on from the Barnes's fly, Anna Jones off like a jack rabbit would have had the clearest channel for the posts, had she managed not to knock the ball forwarded a good fathom...! Our usual safest hands in the business moved too fast for a ball that wasn't quick enough to keep up! However, from the subsequent back and fro of scrummages we managed to get some of our only quick ball of the whole day and as it whipped down the line Clea latched on to the end of it to put down within the first three minutes. Sadly it didn't prove to be the measure of the game, as Barnes were resilient and refused to be kept down. They returned time and time again, and following that try camped rather too firmly for the coach's liking within the midfied and 22 of the Hampstead half. Good communication within the defense line meant that they weren't to get much further to it than ten yards away on this occasion, but for a firm quarter of an hour Hampstead were very much locked into place. This time however when Anna Jones burst away leaving a gaping whole in the Hampstead defense, she ensured she caught the pass from Barnes' fly and sprinted to put down under the posts. Ella refused to look a gift horse in the mouth and promptly put it over for a further two points. Though Barnes may sit at the bottom of the league, they certainly don't play like a beaten team. They were organised, consistent and full of character. This showed when once again they took the game back to Hampstead, and never bugded an inch. Their three quarters continued to cut into our defensive lines, and Maja had her hands full with a talented and shapely opposite 9. In the mud the scrums were fairly equally, though we had the edge of them- Sylvie managing to procure some balls against the head too. Naturally both teams would progress forward a solid twenty to thirty metres before a slip or knock on would result in another one of many scrums. Such was the case when gifted a scrum about seven metres from the line, Sybil latched on to a ball passed straight through the hands, and gratiously offloaded to Clea when two of the opposition failed to put her down, but at least take the inertia out of her momentum. Unconverted this time, Hampstead went off to the half time whistle 17-0 up. It is often thought that the most dangerous moments in any team sport tend to be the first and last five minutes of any half. Such was to be the case. Though berated by the coach, Hampstead faced an incredible drive for the line straight from the kick off by a Barnes side even more keen to draw blood. It was immensely satisfying to see us marshal the defense to drive them back and back again for a solid four minutes before after many phases of ball the pressure told and Barnes spilt the ball forward. The play then passed back and forth through the midfield, first Hampstead progressing forward thirty to forty yards before the ground was reclaimed by a rejuventated Barnes onslaught. It wasn't until roughly halfway through the half that Mars was the final receiver through a solid phase of continuous passing and put down for our fourth try. Barnes once more returned deep into Hampstead lands, daring never to leave, but with two solid breaks giving Hampstead the necessary yardage, it was only so long before Anna Jones, now completely indistinguishable from the rest of the twenty nine players on the park, so covered head to toe in mud that they were, pushed through and down. The only time that the Barnes defense let itself down was a minute later, when with a full head of steam Mars burst through the initial defense, and the covering tackler took a good long look at what was hammering down upon her and decided that perhaps today wasn't a good day to die. Ella saw that away to take the tally at the close to 34-0. Credit should be given to the opposition- who were good competitors, never giving ground nor giving up, and were most congenial hosts. The match was fought with tenacity and spirit by both sides, but also with great friendliness. We shall certainly look forward to playing them again. The referee who came to officiate the match also did so at a last minute call, and was undoubtedly one of the best that we've been privelged to have. Hampstead adapted to the terrible conditions, and it speaks well of them that they were able to win whilst not playing the beautiful rugby we've know them to play. It should be an interesting combat on Valentine's Day weekend. Tries: Bigelow-Nuttal (2), Collins (2), Jones (2) Conversions: Mitchell (2)
HAMPSTEAD LADIES VS GUILFORD (10-0) - 18th January 2009 While the residents of Santiago, Chile enjoyed temperatures of around 32 °C last Sunday, the temperature on Hampstead Heath Extension (or the X, as we call it in the ‘hood) hovered closer to 32F. However, the ladies of Hampstead and their visiting foes from Guildford did their level best to warm things up for their respective supporters who had made the trip to the X for the big match. Whist many ‘top of the table’ clashes turn out like politicians – promising much but delivering very little, this face off was a knock-down, drag out affair more reminiscent of Brenda Walsh v Kelly Taylor than the more recent Angelina Jolie v Jennifer Aniston walkover. However, on this occasion the spoils were not Dylan McKay’s immaculately groomed side burns, but three very valuable league points. Pre-match, most pundits were predicting a close battle despite the fact that Guildford took the first rubber 41-0. However, that was against a Hampstead side stripped of some of its more prominent members and those pigskin prognosticators were not to be disappointed with the return match, as the two sides were to exchange punch and counter punch like two grizzled heavyweights. The skies had opened up the evening before the match, leaving the X in a rather sodden state, although the field didn’t cut up too badly under the delicate pitter patter of 30 pairs of aluminium tipped hooves. Possession and territory were largely shared in the early going as the two teams sized each other up like a pair of nervous teenagers at a high school dance. From the end of the first quarter however, it seemed to this correspondent at least that Hampstead started to gain the upper hand. Whilst points were harder to come by than Catholic virgins, some promising attacking sorties were launched, with number eight Marcella ‘the Muss’ Collins often to the fore. On one such occasion Ms Collins burst down the blindside breaking tackles like so many young hearts. However just when it seemed ‘the Muss’ was about to break the deadlock, the Guildford fullback did the female equivalent of growing a pair (whatever that might be) and stepped up to make a try saving tackle. Amateur songwriter Collins was causing more trouble mere minutes later too, when she managed to off-load the ball out of a tackle to left winger Cathy Pope who made a promising burst down the sideline, only to be bundled into touch. The Guildford defence though, like benefit fraudsters, had been put on notice. Guildford have had a good season thus far however, and showed they lacked nothing in terms of commitment and ability as they camped out in the Hampstead 22 and launched attack after attack on the Hampstead line. But like the hardy citizens of Leningrad, the Hampstead defences held firm, with outside centre Alex Bowtell and captain and prop Ella Mitchell putting in some vital, quite possibly try saving tackles. However the biggest bone cruncher was levelled by hooker Sylvie Fail. Ms Fail is a teacher in training (TIT) and while normally a close encounter with a TIT is a pleasurable experience, this was anything but for the Guildford ball carrier who was stopped on a dime (approximately 6p, or NZ$135), driven backwards and dumped on her back. I hope the young lady enjoys summer school, because the teacher just ‘Fail-ed’ her! Eventually, unlike General Douglas Haig who never tired of sending his men into the teeth of the German machine guns to their certain death in WWI, Guildford decided that perhaps going around, rather than right through the Hampstead defenders might be a better option. And were it not for some sharp clean up work to force a 22 drop out, the well-placed kick in behind the defence may well have paid dividends. After surviving the siege, scrum half Maja Melendez got good distance on her 22 drop out to provide the home side with some breathing room. The ‘beer and curry babies’ were in no mood to simply draw breath though, for as the clock ticked down to half time Bowtell exploded onto a short ball from fly half Nadine Mason like a newly castrated steer bursts out of a head bail. In the interests of full disclosure and impartiality, her highly effective fend on the cover defender may have contained a sliver of forearm and/or elbow, however, I am no orthopaedist so it would not really be fair for me to comment. Suffice to say it was effective. Bearing down rapidly on the goal line, Ms Bowtell’s progress was eventually halted, but she still managed to transfer the ball back to Mason who scored the meat pie with the sort of glee a Canadian only normally displays when they meet someone who can readily and without prompting distinguish their accent from that of someone who lives ‘south of the border’. A well worked try eh. Unfortunately ‘Captain Cardiff’ just missed the conversion to the left hand side of the posts, but Hampstead’s lead at the switch of ends was a useful 5-0. Whilst not privy to coach Jones’ captain Mitchell’s half time comments, the Hampstead ladies had shown both an ability to soak up and apply pressure in the first half. They also displayed some impressive continuity in their play, but this was something of a double-edged sword, for all too often ill-advised passes were thrown and the resultant catch spilled. Much of this was likely due to the muddy ball, cold hands and defensive pressure from the Guildford side, but I’m sure it was of concern to the Hampstead brains trust. Likewise, the ability of the Guildford players to turn over ball in the contact area, both in the air and on the ground no doubt caused a headache or two for those who weren’t already suffering from one due to the excesses of the Saturday night previous. Turning to play uphill in the second half, the big question was whether the 5-0 lead would be enough. Although I was also wondering whether I should abandon my wellies in favour of my runners. Whilst the wellies are better suited to handling the mud that was omnipresent along the sideline, runners would have kept my toes warmer. After some deliberation, I decided to gut it out with the wellies. Inspired decision making. A mere three minutes into the second half, a Hammers Blitzkrieg led to Mason completing her brace of tries for the day, and leaving the Guildford team collectively sporting Jade Goody faces – dumbfounded by the speed with which Hampstead punished their momentary lack of ball control. Guildford attempted to maul the ball away from a lineout just outside their 22. Whilst they made reasonable progress, Hampstead’s finest managed to disrupt the maul and pull it to ground, which sent the ball bouncing loose whereupon inside centre Anna Jones pounced on it as though it was an unclaimed pint. ‘The Muss’ took the ball forward powerfully and after being held by the final defender, managed to spin around and get the pass to the aforementioned Mason to finish the job. Smiles, high fives and shrill cries of ‘WATER’ and ‘KICKING TEE’ abounded. Unfortunately the latter didn’t prevent the conversion from again sliding past the outside of the left hand, and furthermore, Hampstead flanker Kate Woodward suffered a leg injury in the lead up to the try. She was replaced by rookie Betony Lloyd. 10-0 Hampstead. With more than a converted try buffer, Hampstead were in a commanding position, however there is clearly no quit in Guildford, as they continued to battle manfully. Ah, wo-manfully? They managed to engineer a slight overlap for their left winger who took off running like a Scotsman that’s been stuck with the bill, unfortunately for Guildford, Ms Collins was tracking across the field doing her best Hennie Muller impression and managed to bulldog the winger and halt any attacking threat: ‘Too many weights, not enough speed work’. Furthermore, Guildford again set up camp in the Hampstead 22 for a long period of time, but again were not able to penetrate the Hampstead line. After a period of concerted attack, their backline was penalised for being inside the five metres behind an attacking scrum. Quick-thinking Hampstead second row Debbie Crossan took the tap penalty quickly, with scrum half Maja Melendez eventually being forced out 50 metres later, after the ball had passed through numerous sets of hands. That break-out seemed to kill Guildford’s most vociferous resistance, as from then on the Hampstead backs seemed to find more holes in the Guildford defence than a Tesco own-brand condom, with midfielders Jones, Bowtell and fullback Clea Bigelow-Nuttal especially prominent. Credit where it’s due; the Guildford cover defence managed to scramble well enough to prevent further damage on the scoreboard. As it turned out, 10-0 was the final score; a very satisfactory result for Hampstead. Whilst all scrums were uncontested in the match, negating what Hampstead likely considered a great strength, all the forwards dug in and busied themselves around the field. Prop forward Rachel Evans obviously really missed bashing into opponents in the scrum however, so spent her time bashing into rucks, mauls and unwary ball carriers. I can only assume forwards enjoy that type of thing. Newly converted flanker Anna Paley-Smith also seems to enjoy the more rough and tumble nature of the game closer to the front lines. The lineout was an area Hampstead enjoyed superiority in, with Guildford unable to rely on any secure ball from that set piece, with Hampstead second row Fleur Pijpers stealing many of their throws and at the very least disrupting the others with her telescopic reach. The Guildford backs looked to be a useful unit and were well marshalled by their number 10, who looked to have the full range of skills. In that light the Hampstead back’s defensive effort was especially pleasing. Guildford’s left wing showed more toe than a Roman sandal on a number of occasions, but was successfully corralled most of the time by Elle Gaskell-Taylor and fullback Big-Nut. Over all it wasn’t much of a day for wingers, as replacement Sybil Aku discovered when she too came off the bench. While the ball made its way to her wing a couple of times, the road ahead was more M25 during rush hour than the Berlin to Munich autobahn. While they didn’t get their hands D-Mc’s ‘burns, the three league points were safely banked, making for a good day out for the Hampstead ladies. Next up, an away trip to Barnes. Tries: Nadine Mason (2)
HAMPSTEAD LADIES VS OLD CATERHAMIANS (22-0) - 2nd November 2008 ‘Yes we can’ has become the rallying cry for supporters of Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama in the lead up to this year’s US presidential election. At the beginning of the 2008-09 season, questions abounded as to whether the newly promoted Hampstead Ladies could compete in their new league. After four league games in the NC South East West 2 league, it seems the answer is also an emphatic ‘yes we can!’ Whilst not affecting social or economic change, the Hampstead fillies have shown both a willingness to spread the ball and an ability to score tries from anywhere on the park seemingly unaffected by the supposed jump-up in standard. As an aside, were the question posed: Can the Old Caterhamians RFC ladies make it to Hampstead Heath extension in time for a 12noon kick off, the appropriate answer would be: ‘no we most certainly cannot’. That said, with an expectant crowd in attendance, the match kicked off at approximately 12:48pm GMT in conditions pleasant enough by rugby standards. Gone was the cold and driving rain on the previous day, although by the same token the temperature would hardly be described as ‘balmy’. Unless you asked an Eskimo. As numerous and ethnically diverse as the crowd was, however, no Eskimos were in attendance. The home side soon warmed things up, however, by applying early pressure on the Old Cats line. After forcing a five metre scrum, the Hampstead eight turned the screws and had the Old Cats scrum in trouble. A hurried attempt at a clearing kick was not quick enough it seemed, as Hampstead number six Emma Lanman and scrum half Maja Melendez poured through and charged down said kick, allowing Melendez to simply fall on the ball for the opening try of the match. In truth the score was a team effort, however, with the opportunity afforded by constant pressure and a Hampstead scrum that devoured their opponents as if they were a hearty steak. Ms. Melendez, still striking something of a resemblance to George Gregan due to her unseasonably tanned epidermis, couldn’t add the conversion, however, as the ball bounced off the left upright. 5-0. Mere minutes later, the M&M twins were working in concert again. With the Old Cats backline looking to spread the ball wide, the diminutive Hampstead number nine harried the Old Cats backs like an Australian Blue Heeler dog might do to a herd of disagreeable cattle, and was able to drag down the Old Cats runner in the outside centre channel. The Hampstead midfield combination of Anna Jones and Cathy Porritt someone competed vigorously in the ensuing ruck, with the ball spewing out on the Hampstead side, just as ‘beer and curry baby’ Collins arrived on the scene. Swooping up the ball as if it were the hapless prey of a Bald Eagle, she burst through an initial tackle and had both the pace and power to dot down for another Hampstead meat pie 60 metres later. 10-0, after just 10 minutes play. At this point in the match, seagulls began to settle in the Hampstead half, safe in the knowledge they would not be disturbed as Old Cats struggled to make any inroads into Hampstead territory, and the maroon and gold’s continued to siege the Old Cats try line. Unlike the Russians at Stalingrad in 1943, however, Old Cats could not mount their own ‘Operation Uranus’ and turn the tables on their opponents, and in fact in trying to defend their line ended up conceding a penalty five metres from the line. Like the eye of a storm that passes quickly overhead, it was the briefest of respites. Quick thinking Hampstead skipper Ella Mitchell was not in the mood for charity and took the quick tap. From five metres out, the result was akin to and as predictable as letting Justin Timberlake loose in a Delta Gamma sorority house. ie carnage. George Gregan 2.0 was able to add the conversion for a short-lived 17-0 Hampstead lead. Short-lived that is because they were quickly back in try-scoring form. Showing potent power and no small amount of subtlety, the rampaging B&CB Collins managed to pop a peach of a pass out of a tackle situation which Clea Bigelow-Nuttall burst onto and gleefully skipped into the clear. As cover defence closed in, the girl from north of the border threw a deft dummy to confuse her pursuers and ensure her gas could carry her to the line for a great try. As an aside, the Canadian comet was paying 4/1 at William Hill to score a try in the match, which look to be good odds if you can get them at any stage this season. Interestingly, Kerry Kantona is currently paying 3/1 to be caught on camera pleasuring a donkey before 2008 is out, in an effort to regain her status as the UK’s talentless celebrity du jour. Probably worth a sneaky punt too methinks. Captain Mitchell was unable to add the extras. 22-0. Old Cats enjoyed their most profitable period in the run up until half time. Finally managing to get some continuity into their game and maintaining possession well. Their backs also looked to be well drilled, with the flyhalf looking slippery and the centres a pair of good runners. But bend as they may, the Hampstead defence did not break, and the score remained 22-0 at half time. Spotted mingling along the sideline at half time, Hampstead 2s captain Jim Brunt said he was well impressed with the effort from the home team, and lamented not being able to pick a few of the ladies players in the 2s line up for next week. Big George said he too was impressed. And hungry. In hindsight, perhaps Hampstead punched in the clock at half time, or maybe it was Old Cats that put forth an improved effort in the second stanza. Either way, the result was the score line remained at 22-0. Old Cats showed plenty of grit, at times monopolising possession and causing a few cracks to appear in the Hampstead scrum and lineout. They also threw everything including the kitchen sink at the Hampstead defence. Unfortunately for them, Hampstead went to the bathroom, brought back the bathtub and threw that right back at them - the Hampstead loose forward trio of B&CB, Emma Lanman and Alex Bowtell gleefully waiting for the runners to come their way like a pack of mongrel dogs at a butchers window. Attacks that Hampstead mounted in the second half were often snuffed out at ruck time, where it must be said Old Cats were particularly adept at turning over ball. They did have their chances however, with midfielder Anna Jones being brought down by one sock by the Old Cats fullback when seemingly gone for all money, and wing Elle Gaskell-Taylor also had a promising burst down the right hand touch line, only to be gobbled up as the desperate cover defence came across. In the final wash-up, Hampstead might have been disappointed not to have scored more points, especially switching ends at 22-0 to the good. However, Old Cats showed themselves to be worthy opponents and it will be an interesting return match later in the season. But in the immortal words of legendary Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi: ‘winning isn’t everything, it’s the only thing’, and win the Hampstead ladies did. For Hampstead, hooker Sylvie Fail rolled her sleeves up and got heavily involved in the close quarter action, while tighthead prop Hannah Forbes was as solid as the rock of Gibraltar at scrum time. With straight lineout throws apparently about as high a priority for the referee as bathing is for Amy Winehouse, second rows Fleur Pijpers and Debbie Crossan didn’t have many chances to shine in the air, but busied themselves in a defensive effort that produced more big hit than the Beatles. All the backs had their moments, with plenty of decisive and incisive running and stout defence providing plenty of ‘oh sh*t’ moments for their Old Cats opposites. Flyhalf Nadine Mason ran the cutter well, proving that not only does her milkshake bring all the boys to the yard, but that she has been an invaluable addition to the Hampstead this year. With 4 league games gone this year, Hampstead’s record is 3 wins and 1 loss. A record they will be looking to improve on further when they travel to Basingstoke for their next match on November 9.

HAMPSTEAD LADIES VS TEDDINGTON (19-0) – 26th October 2008 A less than sprightly start, on a very cold day, saw us playing a much changed Teddington team. Their back line however still consisted of several good runners, with the ability to mix it up well with the Hampstead defence. Hampstead immediately began by pushing deep into their half, and a beautiful switch of direction and long lofted pass by Anna Jones playing at ten saw our attack almost make it to their try line. Denied by handling errors across the park by both teams, we began again in earnest to push forward. Cathy, starting at inside centre gave both teams a consummate display in strong aggressive direct running, crashing through often. Though quick in the field, and swift to offload, we lacked decisiveness when taking penalties, allowing Teddington to reorganise at every opportunity. It wasn’t until the sixth minute that Maja sniped through the defence in a classic scrum half cheeky try, which she duly converted. Having scored though, we sat back and allowed Teddington to control the play, forcing reactionary rugby on our part, as the play continued up and down the midfield. We were certainly guilty of lacking the motivation to pick up the ball and run in some areas of the pitch, as players looked at one another instead of taking the initiative to grab loose ball. The second half started much as the first had ended, with Hampstead on the back foot and forced to reply to the Teddington effort. Much has to be said to the manner in which our defence held firm however. Good communication and some very hearty tackling saw Teddington’s efforts denied again and again. Our attacks were too lateral in response, with players impeding the 10 channel and obstructing first Maja and then Ailee’s efforts to pass away from the breakdowns. Nearing the end of time, Anna Jones broke through the line, and with constant gasps and screams from her every time she realised that they had let go of her, put down for our second, which Ella duly converted. Abi crashed through the defence and set down only a few minutes later to put the result in no doubt. Trys: Maja Melendez, Anna Jones, Abigal Kline Conv: Maja Melendez, Ella Mitchell
HAMPSTEAD LADIES VS MET POLICE (39-0) – 26th October 2008 If Teddington were much changed, then it should be said that Met Police were fielding an entirely different fifteen. Our previous match had seen their reliance upon their fly half, who had taken it upon herself in that game to challenge Hampstead single handed. Due to injury she had been sidelined. Though instructions to take personal responsibility for the ball, and to take initiative on the field, it was a lacklustre half due to minor infractions that ensured that scrum after scrum took precedence. Not sure if it was down to the cold though….. Anna Jones, having spent much of the half when the ball had got away from the scrum running with it, was able to duck and dive under a half dozen tackles as she did her best impression of a slippery eel, and put down for our only try of the half. The second half was an entirely different game, as Hampstead put the opposition to the sword. The first try was entirely down to an inspired passage of play down to two individuals, Alex Bowtell and Emma Lanman. Both players offloaded several times to one another, and each time they were knocked down to the floor bounced up and continued running to give the other support. Marcella, chasing them down received the pop up a few metres from the line and touched down for what was a beautiful piece of flowing supportive rugby. Some superlative aggressive running rugby from Merrin, and my player of the day, Cathy saw us pushing them ever backwards and it was good to see Emma Lanman put down next, for her efforts at flanker. Further points by Anna, Maja and Abi saw us clinch this half easily, as we finished the match playing the sort of rugby that Hampstead loves to- fast running rugby, with swift support allowing little break in the continuity of forward play. Trys: Anna Jones, Marcella Collins, Emma Lanman, Maja Melendez, Abigal Kline Conv: Maja Melendez I am very pleased that we managed to hold both teams to nil - our defence communicating well with one another. Our sad loss comes with the departure of Merrin - a great player off on her travels. We bid her adieu and will welcome her home I’m sure with open arms.

Archive 2008 News

Majamelendez — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:07:30 CDT

There is no abstract available for this page revision.

Archive Fixtures

Majamelendez — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:06:51 CDT

Date & Time	Competitor	Type	Location	Result	Points For	Points Against
6-9-08 / 3PM	Blackheath	Friendly	Away	LOST	12	62
14-9-08 / 12PM	London MET Teddington	Friendly Friendly	Away Away	WON WON	32 22	0 18
21-9-08 / 2:30PM	Lewes	League	Away	WON	24	5
5-10-08/ 12:30PM	Tottonians	League	Home	WON	49	7
12-10-08/ 2pm	Guildford	League	Away	LOST	0	41
19-10-08	Luton 8's	Friendly	Away	WON	29	7
26-10-08	Barnes	League	Home	POSTPONED	-	-
26-10-08	London MET Teddington	Friendly Friendly	Away Away	WON WON	37 19	0 0
2-11-08	Old Caterhamians	League	Home	WON	22	0
9-11-08	Basingstoke	League	Away	WON	94	5
16-11-08	Harlow	Friendly	Away	CANCELLED	-	-
23-11-08	Hammersmith & Fulham	League	Home	LOST	10	40
30-11-08	Chelmsford	Friendly	Home	WON	19	17
7-12-08	Lewes	League	Home	WON	75	13
13-12-08	Blackheath	Friendly	Away	LOST	5	30
4-1-09	Chelmsford	Friendly TOUCH	Away	DRAW	10	10
11-1-09	Tottonians	League	Away	POSTPONED	-	-
18-1-09	Guildford	League	Away	WON	10	0
25-1-09	Barnes	League	Away	WON	34	0
1-2-09	London MET More photos	Friendly	Away	WON	17	15
8-2-09	Tonbridge	Friendly	Home	CANCELLED	-	-
15-2-09	Barnes	League	Home	POSTPONED	-	-
22-2-09	Harlow	Friendly	Home	WON	36	10
1-3-09	MET Police	League	Away	WON	22	5
8-3-09	Wimbledon	Friendly	Home	LOST	17	27
15-3-09	Tottonians	Friendly	Away	WON	24	10
29-3-09	Old Caterhamians	League	Away	LOSE	5	36
5-4-09	Basingstoke	League	Home	WALKOVER
11-4-09	Greate Tryn	Friendly	Home	WON	70	0
19-4-09	Hammersmith and Fulham	League	Away	LOST	46	5
26-4-09	Barnes	League	Home	WALKOVER
03-05-09	Harlequins- Mandy Walker memorial cup	Friendly	Away
9-5-09	Church 7's	Friendly	Away

NEW KIT!

Majamelendez — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 05:06:14 CDT

Ladies!! KIT TIME!!!!

KIT WILL BE WITH US ON JANUARY 9TH. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

On offer this year are polo shirts, hoodies and wet tops. They are the same as the ones you have seen the team wearing already so you know what to expect!!

These are the polo’s. They’ll cost you £27.61 and you’ll get your number on the back, and name on the chest.

These are the hoodies. No name or number on these so get your Sharpie out and write it on your tag ☺ These will cost you £30.55

New this season – due to popular demand, are Wet tops!! These will have pockets on the side, a hood and fleece lining to keep you warm while both training and supporting Hampstead from the sidelines!! You can have your name printed on the front and Hampstead Ladies Rugby Club will be printed on the back. These will cost you £37.

If you’re interested in any of these items, I need to hear back from you by the 30th OCTOBER. Due to skanky people leaving me out of pocket in the past, I will also need payment by then too. NO CASH, NO STASH!! You can pay Fleur by cash, cheque or transfer her the money. Email her for her details if this is your preferred method of payment.

Below are size charts for you which are applicable to all items. They can go larger if you require just let me know.

Ladies Cut Product
Label	8	10	12	14	16	18	20	22
Bust	30	32	34	36	38	40	42	44
Waist	26	28	30	32	34	36	38	40

Please let me know:
A – what items you want
B – what sizes you want
C – what numbers/names you want if applicable

Over and out
Muj x

Ladies October news update

Majamelendez — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 05:06:00 CDT

Hi Ladies,

Firstly, well done us! We’ve had a very promising start to the season with some great rugby being played across the board, all our hard work seems to be paying off and we’re doing a great job of maintaining our reputation as being a friendly, reliable side. I know we took a bit of a beating over the weekend but there were several influencing factors as per discussed in the club e-mails. One big factor is numbers - we had 16 players last Sunday which out of a pot of over 40 isn’t good enough. Having a bench is not only good for support but it gives us the opportunity to mix things up a bit. This goes out to both experienced players and new faces on the scene….
On that note a quick word about training. Numbers are still few and far between so if you can’t make it please let myself or Ella know via text or e-mail. Its nylon impossible to organise a training session unless we know specific numbers in advance so as soon as you know let us know. A big thanks to those of you who have been at training consistently…it’s great to see individual play improving so keep it up.

Socials….

On the socials front we have some corkers coming up. On Friday 7th November we will be having our annual choir social which for those of you who haven’t had the pleasure yet basically entails shameless singing and plenty of black sambucas at the White Horse. It will also be when the new official Hampstead Ladies song makes it first official debut (for those out last Friday that was the unfinished and censored version). Don’t get FOMO. Also, for our sins a few of us will be hitting The Church this Sunday for some afternoon dancing and socialising. I’d positively encourage it if you haven’t been before…..text me if you’re around…07834826531

Kit and Match fees…

Our bank account will be up and running soon ladies so in the meantime can we continue paying Fleur both match and registration fees. Maja will be sending out an email shortly about new kit for this season. If you are interested, you will need to have your cheque books at the ready!! Keep checking your emails and the Wiki!

Matches….

If any of you fancy playing some rugby in Luton this Saturday (KO TBC) please let me know. I have several players from both Tabbard and Hampstead ready to join forces to play the Vauxhall girls. Last season it was a great laugh so do come along for the banter and cheap bar prices.

Can you also fill in your availability on the WIKI?
http://hampsteadladies.wetpaint.com/page/Your+availability

See you tonight/Saturday/Sunday…

Mars xxx

Hampstead Legends win the league

Majamelendez — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 05:05:48 CDT

Promotion!

Hampstead Ladies rugby club have had a fantastic season. They won their league by a 16 point margin and won nine out of their ten games. They scored 263 points and only conceded 56 points.

The club was formed in 2004 by Elle Gaskell-Taylor and has gone from strength to strength. The club ranges from complete novices to very experienced players. Hampstead welcomes players of all ages and the current eldest is 37. Hampstead have been particularly successful this season due to great team work, enthusiasm and camaraderie both on and off the pitch.

Awards and the ball

Every year Hampstead rugby club has a ball to celebrate the season (be a bit raucous) and award those who have been particularly outstanding or have made a special contribution to the club. This year’s winners are:

Players Player – Ella Mitchell
Coach’s player – Sylvie Fail
Forward of the year – Marcella Collins
Back of the year – Eli Faulkner
Outstanding Contribution – Ella Mitchell
Newcomer of the year – Debbie Crossan
Most improved player – Asha Savjani
Cheeky monkey – Eli Faulkner

New season and a new league for Hampstead Ladies

Majamelendez — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 05:05:33 CDT

The wait is over. We finally have confirmation of the teams we will be playing against this season. Take a look. Some old friends and some new opposition to get our teeth stuck into (though I wouldn't recommend this!).

NC SOUTH EAST WEST 2
Hammersmith and Fulham
Guilford
Barnes
Lewes
Basingstoke
Old Caterhamians
Hampstead
Tottonians

Run down of our oppositions - where they've come from and how they performed last season:

Hammersmith, Guilford,Barnes, Lewes and Basingstoke were all in this league last year and came 2nd - 5th respectively.
Old Caterhamians have come down from league South East 1 where they came second to last in the table.
Tottonians won their league South East West 3 last year.

The ladies vote in their new committee

Majamelendez — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 05:05:15 CDT

Those present at this years AGM voted in the new committee.

Ella Mitchell takes on another season as our trusty Captain.
Marcella Collins steps into the role of Vice Captain.
Debbie Crossan takes over the role of Club Secretary.
Sarah Cadwallader joins the crew as Fixtures Secretary.
Fleur Pijpers gets her hands on the money and becomes Finance Secretary.
Sian Davies carries on where she left off as Social Secretary.
Maja Melendez keeps the online power and retains her Webmaster duties.

Hampstead Ladies Rugby Club AGM 17/06/08 Minutes
Attendees Ella Mitchell, Marcella Collins, Sylvie Fail, Hannah Forbes, Emma Lanman, Maja Melendez, Nancy Bicknell, Fleur Pijpers, Sarah Cadwallader, Sian Davies, Elinor Faulker, Dee and Deborah Crossan.

Item	Notes	Responsible
1.	Election of 2008/09 committee Captain – Ella Mitchell, proposed by Marcella seconded by Sarah Vice Captain – Marcella Collins, proposed by Ella seconded by Emma Fixtures Secretary – Sarah Cadwallader, proposed by Marcella seconded by Fleur Club Treasurer – Fleur Pijpers – proposed by Sylvie seconded by Ella Social Secretary - Sian Davies proposed by Ella seconded by Marcella PR/webmaster – Maja Melendez proposed by Ella seconded by Emma
2.	Development Plan All attendees presented with development plan. Club members to read through development plan and inform committee what they want adding and how they can help the committee to meet the objectives. The development plan is owned by all members of the club not just the committee. Club bid successfully for £250 from the RFUW. This was based on the development plan. Money to be spent on marketing, coaching, training courses and equipment. Debbie and Sylvie are responsible for the money and ensuring that updates are sent to the RFUW twice yearly.	All members Debbie and Sylvie
4.	Constitution Ella suggested that there will be changes to the constitution with the possible deletion on the Transport committee position. Nancy raised concerns that the tasks for this role will still need to be done. Committee to decided how these will be distributed. Committee to discuss and amend constitution at the next committee meeting. Constitution will be distributed to all club members once amended.	Committee
5.	Finance Ella informed members that match fees will move to standing order like the men’s club. Thus reducing the hassle and ensuring that we have money in our account for outgoings. Members will have the option to pay on the day or pay by a monthly standing order. Committee to decide on exact amounts at the next meeting. Fleur to look into setting up a bank account for the ladies team.	Committee Fleur

Next Committee meeting: Tuesday 24/06/08

The Hampstead Constitution and Development Plan will be posted on this site at a later date.

Latest Club News

Majamelendez — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 05:05:01 CDT

July/August 2008
With Southwold over and August pending, there's only another month or so of pre-season left so please make sure you get to training. The club is getting a SCRUM MACHINE so there is no excuse for us not to dominate again this year!

Dates for your Diary!
Every Tuesday/Thursday - Training - Tuesdays for the next few weeks - Crotchy beasting session, Thursday James is back so let's keep him happy by being there and out of the pub.
19th August (pending confirmation) - Josh Lewsey training session - so come to training now so it doesn't look as if you're coming just for him!
31st August - 10km run
7th Sept - In the morning is the Heath Duathlon (see Sylvie for details), in the afternoon (I hope!) is the FIRST GAME against Footscray! See fixtures for details and keep yourself available.
13th Sept - Club BBQ
14th Sept - 2nd game of the season!
AOB
There are now 2 physios coming to training on Thursdays so if you have any pre-season niggles get them checked out.

Please make a note of fixtures and keep up to date, and make the effort to come to training - the fitter you are, the more enjoyable the season will be.

Memories of Southwold

Majamelendez — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 05:04:24 CDT

Pumping out the Baywatch theme to residents of Finsbury Park far too early on a Friday morning, the convoy of doom with Sylvie risking the lives of her team mates with motorway handbrake turns in to invisible slip roads, the most amazing mix tapes ever made, pitching tents on poo, the only nettles in the world to grow nowhere near doc leaves, the biggest rural dyke ever born serving Melendez, Lanman and Fogg our lunch, first pints of the wold in the pub, barbeque time – ‘when will I see you again?’, The arrival of Steve after SIX hours!, the speedy consumption of 50 cans by the Sylvie food group, Fleur’s domination of the stage area and continual removal of her top, popeye sitting by the portaloos for HOURS with a boy, the lovely clean toilets, Sylvie going to bed at 9 - MOODY!, being told I looked like Chris from Hollyoaks by the man who grabbed my tits!, Alex’s alarm – ‘If you don’t turn that off I’m gonna come and find you and fuck you up!’, getting to the beach by about 6am and cracking open the cans, the most pathetic attempt at a shoulder fight in the sea by Mars and Popeye, our first loss, our second glorious loss, our third magnificent loss etc, Ella’s amazing tackles in tag rugby, the tickliest knees in the world – alex and mars, Footscary, Fleur refusing to compete for Hampstead glory in the dance off despite about 50 teams unanimously chanting ‘FLEUR FLEUR FLEUR’ followed by ‘She’s lost her sense of humour …’, Mozzie bites everywhere – especially Mars’ bum, Baywatch beauties emerging from their tents, white body paint outside the exploding tent of crap, Cruella losing her sense of humour, 101 dalmations – WROOF WROOF WROOF!, the funnel, the jaegermeister, Letitia bum funnel with very bad aim, Getting stuck in Ella’s lifeguards ring and being saved by about 3 people holding my arse and 3 people holding the ring having a tug’o’war, Debbie falling over all night covered in red wine, a naked man in Cathy’s tent, Candice’s naked man being found by Alex pissing up against Steve, Debbie falling over all night, everyone pulling, everyone shagging, Ella’s man naked all night, Popeye punching the boy she pulled, Popeye passing out a million times in one night, Foggy being chased around the campsite with her shepee and finally settling by MY car, Alex ordering just fat and crackling from the hog roast stand, the grilling of the AE’s (alien experts Muj and Candice) about UFOs by the portaloos, Cruella lying in full costume on her mattress in the middle of the campsite with a can of fosters as we all packed up around her, the morning chorus of the the Baywatch theme …de de de de dum!

Coach's Corner

BossOfHLRFC — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 12:50:43 CDT

FILL IN YOUR PLAYER PROFILE

Please download and fill in the Player profile attachment at the bottom of this page for James. Hand it in to either him, Mars or Ella when you have completed it!

They will not only be good for coaching purposes but great for improving indiviual play so GET FILLING IN!

From James: Please fill these in. They will be for your ongoing personal development. Some questions have been asked regarding the coaching sessions. Please say how you are enjoying/not enjoying them, what benefits you feel you gain from them (or not for that matter) and in the future what emphasis would you like being placed on them. See you all tonight.

Directions

Majamelendez — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 06:29:22 CDT

Directions to our training ground

Finding the training ground - Parliament Hill Athletics Track. The club don't actually train and play at the same place. To get to the training ground, there are several methods:

Train - Get the Silverlink train to either Gospel Oak or Hampstead Heath train station, 5 minute walk from each. Tube - Northern Line to Belsize Park, 12 minute walk.
Buses - From Central London, get the Number 24 bus which drops you at the topof Constantine Road and it's then a 7 minute walk to the changing room. Or the C2 and 214 will drop you off on Highgate Road by the tennis courts and it's a 5 minute walk from there.

Please note that you have to pay to use the track, it's £50 for the season or £2.60 a go. You work out what's cheaper! There is a student discount if you're lucky enough to be one of those.

Directions to our pitches on the Heath extension

To get to our pitches, there are also multiple methods.

Car - Assuming that you can get to London OK. The best bet generally is to take either the M25 or the North Circular Road (A406) to the foot of the M1 or A1M and head for Finchley / Golders Green. If you're playing against Hampstead you will need to find our facilities at the Heath Extension. Take the Finchley Road and turn right (or left) by Golders Green underground station into North End Road (marked on the map) After 600 yards, turn left into Wellgarth Road. Follow road to the left into Hampstead Way. After 200 yards, the changing rooms (marked Pav on the map below) are visible on the right hand side set some 100 yards off Hampstead Way. The pitches are located where the red X is.

By tube -To get to the grounds via tube from central London, you need to get on the Northern Line (Edgware branch) and get off at Golders Green tube station, which is in zone 3. The ground is then a 8 minute walk. Turn left from the tube station up North End Road, and then take a left on to Wellgarth Road. Follow the road round left into Hampstead Way and you will see the Pavilion on the Heath. Head for this and you are there. The actual pitches are 5 minutes walk from the changing rooms. Look for the posts.

By bus -The best thing to do for bus directions is to try the Transport for London Website - here.