After a season full of challenges, determination and huge character from everyone involved, we are delighted to officially confirm that our 2nd XV will remain in Eastern Counties Division One South for the 2026/27 season.

What at one stage looked certain to end in relegation has instead become a massive moment of positivity for the club — and a reward for the relentless efforts both on and off the pitch throughout the year.

Despite incredible commitment from the players and 2nd XV Head Coach Brad James, a difficult start to the campaign — including several early concessions and the resulting points deductions — left the side in far too deep a hole to realistically recover from in the league standings.

But rather than letting heads drop, the squad responded exactly how this club always does.

As the season progressed, more and more lads stepped up, allowing the club to consistently field teams week after week. Performances improved, confidence returned, and the spirit around the squad grew stronger with every game.

That resilience culminated in arguably the performance of the season during the cup semi-final. On another day, with a few hastily made going the other way, our boys could easily have reached a second cup final this year — and there may well have been silverware making its way back to Phoenix Park.

While the work on the pitch deserved enormous credit, there was just as much happening behind the scenes.

Chairman Wilson, alongside the coaching and management team, fought tirelessly to secure the future of the 2nd XV at this level. Following countless meetings, discussions and hard work behind closed doors, the club was successful — and we are proud to say that Level 9 rugby remains at Phoenix Park.

This is hugely important as we continue building stronger links between our Colts and senior rugby setup, giving talented young players the perfect environment to transition into adult rugby. It also strengthens our ability to recruit both externally and from former players who maybe hung the boots up a little too early.

Surrounded by a number of rugby clubs, it is brilliant for our 2nd XV to continue competing against the development sides of the same clubs our 1st XV face, while proving that Stowmarket belongs at this level. Furthermore, competing at the same level as clubs such as Thurston RFC and Felixstowe RFC gives us the opportunity to show that our Second team is far more than just a social team - but one with competitive rugby, short travelling and strong coaching support, as well as the social!

A huge thank you goes to Jack and everybody involved behind the scenes in helping make this happen. The effort and commitment shown away from the pitch has been outstanding and has given this squad the platform to continue growing.

Now, the focus turns to next season.

The foundations are there. The belief is growing. And the 2nd XV are ready to build again.