Programme Notes 2007/8

Bristol Rugby (HC)

Regular readers of my ramblings will be aware that I could not be at the match last week, as I was visiting relatives in Chicago. Some would say that this was both good news and bad news. The good news was that I didn’t witness what those present had to endure. The bad news was that the US Midwest wasn’t far enough away!! What last week told us about the state of Quins’ rugby is unclear. After all, it was the EDF and once we realised a 4-try win wasn’t possible it was a lost cause, but if we really want to see the Stoop becoming the “fortress” that the Management aspire to, then every home game has to be won, whatever the prize, or lack of it. 

Before the Ospreys result, I planned that my sermon for this week was to be a backing for John Kingston’s plea, delivered at the recent Quinssa “Meet the Coaches” Evening, for supporters to raise the ante in getting behind the players, both during the warm-up and throughout the game itself. My initial response after last week’s performance was to go back to the drawing board; however, my belief is that this is now even more important. I consider that as supporters we are an important part of the Quins family, for better or for worse, and we have a real role to play in match results. However, although the atmosphere at the Stoop has changed significantly over the past few years, we are still seen by many visitors as one of the easiest set of supporters to play in front of. Of course, winning an award for the match-day experience is something to be proud of, but that shouldn’t apply to the opposition team, only their supporters. Those of you who have travelled to away matches will be aware of the atmosphere that Gloucester or Leicester or Stade Francais supporters can create and the advantage that provides to their team. You will also be aware of the amount of noise that our supporters can generate at those away matches, so it’s not a Quins’ thing to be passive. We know that the players want and feed off this passion. One only has to watch either Gommars or Tom Williams during a game, actively attempting to orchestrate us in the Stands. Go on; give it a go. If nothing else it will warm you up. 

Changing the subject, don’t forget that as a result of Quinssa developing a relationship with Etihad, you have the opportunity to win two flights to Dubai or Abu Dhabi.  Everyone who is a member of Quinssa on 22nd December 2007 will be entered into a FREE draw for a pair of tickets on Etihad Airways. The Presentation is to be made at the Leicester Tigers game on 6th January 2008. In working with Etihad we are looking to reinforce the Etihad and Quins partnership from a supporter view and also increase our Quinssa membership.  You can all help us here.  Quinssa membership is only £5 per season. This includes the chance to win these return flights, opportunities to win match tickets, discounts on away coach travel, local restaurants and Etihad Airways as well as free entry to our famous ‘Meet The….’ evenings and much much more!

Cliff Funnell
Cliff@quinssa.org.uk

Programme Note Archive