Lowestoft & Yarmouth rugby club only have a couple of weeks before they begin their 129th season representing the towns - and, if the training is any gauge of likely success, they are hoping for a bright year.

Lowestoft & Yarmouth rugby club only have a couple of weeks before they begin their 129th season representing the towns - and, if the training is any gauge of likely success, they are hoping for a bright year.

Formal training for the seniors began at the start of July and on every Tuesday and Thursday the attendance has regularly topped 35 players, creating an enthusiastic atmosphere that is the most encouraging L&Y has felt for several years.

With a number of senior 1st XV players still getting ahead on work comittments and taking well-earned summer holidays, there is still more to come, and the number of less experienced players turning up is very encouraging.

Head coach Scott Nelson and his team of coaches, have adopted a

well-planned training routine which sees the players go through an interesting and varied series of drills, exercises and games.

With the introduction this year of the new Experimental Law Variations on scrums, line-outs, mauling and kicking, the need to train is paramount in order to understand the changes. The ELVs are aimed to make the game more flowing, so the old adage of “Get Fit To Play Rugby, Don't Play Rugby To Get Fit” will be even more important this year.

A full fixture list every week has been organised for the 1sts, 2nds

and 3rd XV Drifters, while the

re-introduction of the 4th XV for the first time in 20 years sees captain Dave Rose in charge of more than a dozen games throughout the year.

The 1st XV has every chance of challenging for the Eastern Counties League One title this year, but

the main aim of the club is to strengthen its whole playing base

and attract new and old players into the fold.

New 1st XV captain Danny Simmons said: “Having more players throughout the club means more competition for places in the 1st

XV squad, which can only lead to better results.

“We'll pick the team on merit, and that includes their training attendance. Squad places are up

for grabs.”

Fixtures begin with the Broadland 10's tournament on Sunday August 17, followed by a squad day at Broadland RFC on Saturday August 23.

The 1st XV then play further two friendlies before their league campaign begins in earnest against old rivals Holt RFC at home on Saturday September 13.

Tickets for the popular pre-game VP Luncheon are available from Keith Nelson on 07939-542407.

If you want to play this year go up to training at Gunton Park, Corton on a Tuesday or Thursday night at 7pm.

Many 17 and 18-year-old youth players have stepped up to the senior ranks already, as well as several

old stagers coming back from retirement or exile. Everyone is assured a friendly welcome.