SHARKS LINK WITH STOCKPORT STRENGTHENED

Stockport, one of the promotion favourites for Powergen North 2 West have further strengthened their connection with the Sale Sharks with the move of Sharks' training operation to Stockport RUFC in Bramhall.

Stockport RUFC have been delighted to welcome their senior rugby brothers to share their facilities which have been their home since 1964. The Sharks now have the run of the clubís 11? acres and the club house where they are catered at lunch times by Stockportís stewards Mike and Sara Moran. There are, however, no chips on the menu with the playerís diet being closely monitored by the Sharks back room staff.

Stockport RUFC play their rugby in the very competitive Powergen North 2 West league. The first team is coached by Tim Burgon who is in his second season back at the club after spending many years at Manchester. He is assisted by Dave Parker who was responsible for re-establishing Stockport as a force in North West rugby over the last 8 years. The club runs 4 senior XVs with the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th XVís also having full league programmes within the North West Intermediate leagues sponsored by Fairclough Homes.

One of the aspects of the club that especially appealed to Phillipe St Andre was that it has a strong family feeling. This is borne out by the Clubís current President. Kay Weeks is in her third year of office and on Stockport match days can be found in her purpose built gantry videoing the game. Her husband Ed is the manager of the 2nd XV and her two sons Chris and Joe are both members of the 1st XV squad.

Stockport RUFC has a very strong Junior section. For the 2004-2005 season there will be 11 teams from Under 7 through to Under 17 (as at 1st September 2004) and this will mean a junior membership approaching 350 with RFU qualified coaches at every age. Not surprisingly they enjoy a number of ëvisitsí from the Sharks.

Stockport started their season with a hard fought 7-3 win over Caldy last week, and carry on with a home clash with Lymm. Lymm will be looking to get back on track, following their 21-16 defeat at home to Oldham on the opening day.

Article Posted: 0---1-2004