
Club President: Duncan Nicholl
Background:
With a remarkable journey spanning over three decades within Grove Rugby Club, we are proud to announce Duncan Nicholl as Club President. Married to Jackie and father to Ben, Guy, Ollie, Joanne and Michaela, Duncan has been a mainstay at the club and known in the local community for his commitment.
Duncan recently retired and is now looking to use his energy to promote and grow the club. Duncan joined Grove at the start of the 1978/79 season, originally starting as a prop for the 2nd XV. A quick transition to the first team ensued but a change of position saw Duncan establish himself on the wing.
Transitioning seamlessly from player to mentor, Duncan undertook the mantle of a mini/junior coach, orchestrating teams from the grassroots U7s through to Colts, securing the County Cup at U15s, U16s, and U17s. Duncan’s dedication beyond the pitch saw him take up many roles within the club, serving on committees, volunteering tirelessly, and assuming roles ranging from the pragmatic to the pivotal – from 1st Team Manager to Clubhouse Secretary, and notably, Club Captain from 1989 to 1991. Duncan has been a prominent figure representing the club at the county level, entrusted with the mantle of County Representative and contributing significantly to the County Disciplinary Panel since 2007.
Presidency Goals:
“As president my goal is to fully support the board with their ambition towards a unified future, to forge unity among the Mini, Junior, Ladies and Senior sections, supporting the club in its drive to become known once again for its "one club" ethos and “first choice rugby club in the local area”
“There will be a number of projects I will help support going forwards, I’m interested in looking at other forms of rugby including walking and mixed ability, and will be discussing this with the board to provide a new area, that our local community can embrace”
“As an active and visible President, I aim to foster a sense of community among all club members, embodying the values of teamwork, respect, and passion that define rugby.”