At the end of this season, Stowmarket Rugby Club says a heartfelt thank you to one of our most dedicated volunteers, as Rob steps down from coaching after an incredible 11-year journey with his team.

Rob’s story with the club began back in September 2015, when his son Harry joined the Under 6s. What started as a kind family gesture—Harry’s great-uncle offering to buy his first kit and cover his subs—quickly turned into something much bigger. When the team’s coach moved on, then-club chairman Paul Relf managed to persuade Rob to step in… reportedly with the help of a coffee and a bacon roll. It’s safe to say that was one of the best “recruitment decisions” the club has ever made.

By his own admission, Rob came into rugby from a football background and didn’t claim to know the game inside out. But what he did bring—commitment, care, humility, and a willingness to learn—proved far more important. Over the next 11 years, he guided his group all the way from Under 6s to Under 16s, shaping not just better players, but a close-knit team and a group of young people who embody the values of the game.

Rob has given hundreds upon hundreds of hours to the club—planning training sessions, coaching week in and week out, and always putting the team first. Even a serious knee injury in 2022, which required surgery, didn’t keep him away. He carried on coaching with the same determination and positivity that have defined his time here.

His impact hasn’t been limited to the pitch. As Youth Chairman during the 2023/24 season, Rob played a key role in organising what many regard as one of the most successful and well-run minis festivals the club has hosted. He continued to support youth rugby through fixture organisation and has always been one of those people willing to step up—whether that’s helping at events, marshalling car parks, or simply lending a hand wherever needed.

While Rob feels now is the right time to step away from coaching, we want to be very clear: his contribution has been nothing short of outstanding. The humility he shows in talking about his own coaching “limitations” only highlights the kind of person he is. From our perspective, his influence on this group of players—and on the club as a whole—has been immense.

We’re delighted that Rob isn’t going anywhere. He remains a valued part of the Stowmarket Rugby Club family and will no doubt continue to bring his energy, humour, and friendship to the social side of the club—something he has always embraced just as much as the rugby itself.

Rob, thank you for everything you’ve given over the past 11 years. You’ve made a lasting difference to so many young players and to the club as a whole. We’re proud to have you as part of our community—on and off the pitch.