After months of rain the eagerly anticipated visit of the Bolingey Barbarians as part of the Club’s Diamond Anniversary was blessed with the first sunshine of Spring.

The game with St Austell Vets was full of passion, commitment and remarkable levels of skill. Both sides scored some fantastic tries in the finest traditions of “Barbarians” rugby and the game was keenly contested right to the very end. At the final whistle it was honours even with the match ending in a draw.

The “third half” in the Clubhouse was a chance for old team mates and rivals to come together in the true spirit and traditions of rugby to reminisce and celebrate 60 years since the formation of St Austell RFC. There were former players from every era, all with that special bond that only rugby and the Saints can provide. Tales of heroic victories, whopping defeats, epic coach trips and high jinks were regaled, while no good stories were spoiled with the truth! From beam diving, pyramids, epic away trips and tours to lands beyond the Tamar, the memories were relived, and games replayed with vigour triggering laughter and joy amongst all those present.

Those no longer with us were fondly remembered and glasses were raised in their honour with misty eyed affection. The Clubhouse reverberated once again to the sound of traditional Cornish songs and seas shanties in an atmosphere of a bygone era.

Our thanks go to Bolingey Barbarians for making it such a special occasion for everyone at Tregorrick.

St Austell RFC have always been great supporters of the Bolingey Barbarians with many Saints going on to play for the invitational side. Their amazing work supporting children’s charities in Cornwall is legendary and St Austell RFC Chair Paul Hayes was delighted to be able to present the Barbarians with £1,000 from the club to kick off the fund raising for the day.

This was added to by an auction and raffle led by the one and only Andy Stephens long time servant to both clubs, to make a total raised on the day to £2,445.

Bolingey Barbarians Chair Roger Mead was made Honorary VP of St Austell RFC by Paul Hayes in recognition of his contribution to Cornish community rugby and the incredible achievements in fund raising for children’s charities in Cornwall.

An amazing day for “One and All”

Next Saturday 6 April 2024, see the Saints home to Brixham in the final Regional 1 SW league game of the season (Kick Off 3pm).

The Papa Johns Community Cup campain starts on Saturday 13 April 2024 - follow the link for all the details of the Pool matches.

SAVE THE DATE! Diamond Dinner and Awards Night will be on Saturday 1 June 2024 at the Seahorse at Pentewan Sands. Look here for more information with the hottest ticket in Town to be released for sale on 1st April 2024.