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Hoylake R.F.C.
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TWICKENHAM 2001
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| An entry in the history site of HRFC of an event that took place as recently
as 2001 may seem inappropriate. However, this event was rather different.
In the past a trip to Twickenham has invariably incorporated a visit to
an International and in the 80 years of our history it could never have
been envisaged that one day a Hoylake XV would be the focus of a London
visit. As the most momentous event in the playing history of the Club it
must qualify as 'history in the making'.
The success of Hoylake Rugby Club since the Club was formed in 1922 reflects the efforts of many individuals over the years. But, the Club's appearance at Twickenham stems directly from the development over the last twenty or more years of a Junior Section, that has produced a number of County players at all levels and, indeed, a few International players. A display of skills by 22 members of the Mini Section and their coaches was also in evidence at Twickenham. The fact that of the 22 players who appeared at Twickenham 19 are products of the Junior Section speaks volumes, and of those 19 only 5 have left Hoylake only to return to the fold. The organisation and support for these gifted players was almost unbelievable.
Planning was akin to the invasion of the Capital - 300 supporters, bedecked
with 200 rosettes and 80 jester's hats, were organised at 6.45 am on Saturday
morning to climb aboard 6 coaches filled to capacity. A multitude of other
supporters travelled independently and included 15 Past Captains of the
1st XV, one of whom travelled from Saudi Arabia. 100 commemorative ties
fluttered in the Twickenham breeze. The following pages will hopefully speak volumes of this GREAT LITTLEClub. |