Well, what a season that was! Head coach Will Knight and the 1st XV deserve huge credit for retaining Havant's National League status. And massive congratulations must go to the Dolphins for winning all 22 games with the highest points tally in the country and securing promotion.
Staying in National League 2 East as Hampshire's highest-ranked club is arguably an even greater achievement than being promoted last season.
It's a big step up after 15 years and Havant have come up against some experienced and well-drilled teams, but have proved they can be very competitive at the fourth tier of English rugby and that bodes well for next season.
Meanwhile the all-conquering Dolphins can look forward to life in Regional 2 South Central, level six in the league pyramid. Their perfect season of bonus point wins will go down in the history books and shows what depth of talent there now is at the club.
Well done also to the Women's 1st XV for performing strongly in their league and it's great to see the Sirens and the Girls Academy showing that the women's game at Havant is going from strength to strength.
With the Red Roses going for glory in a home World Cup this summer, interest and participation is only going to grow.
Then there are the hundreds of minis and juniors who have loved training and playing for Havant this season and who will hopefully go on to represent the club at senior level. They are the future.
As Vice President I enjoyed attending the end-of-season President's Lunch and presenting the Volunteer of the Month award to Dolphins head coach Joe Moore.
As well as steering them to a remarkable season, Joe also pulled on his boots and came off the bench three times, scoring a try in each game!
The President's Lunch is a great way of bringing the whole club together and saluting everybody's contribution and I was delighted to say a few words and honour Joe. For the 1st XV to then go out and beat Colchester in their final home league game with their best result of the season was a great way to round off the day.
Rugby clubs are special places where lasting bonds are formed and memories are created on and off the pitch.
I've loved the game ever since I played at school in York and I'm honoured to be Havant's Vice President.
To all fellow supporters, enjoy your summer, cheer on the Red Roses in the World Cup and also the British & Irish Lions in what we all hope will be a famous series win over Australia and let's look forward to 2025/6!
