FOLLOWING a highly successful rugby season, despite the best efforts of the weather to disrupt it, Okehampton RFC first XV finished top of the Western Counties West league and gained promotion to the level six league South West One for next season.

The team lost only three games during the during the season. It was a heavy load for the players with two games a week during April, but the players stepped up to the plate and thoroughly deserved their success. As the season progressed head coach Gareth Evans and club captain Tom Powell motivated the players and forged an excellent team ethic, something essential to a successful side.

Club secretary Dave Potter told the Times: ’Okehampton RFC were last promoted to the South West One League about 20 years ago and only survived one season at that level. So it is with a sense of high anticipation we look forward to the next season when our young squad attempts to improve on their predecessor’s record. They have the ability and spirit to succeed, so we wish them well.’

The second XV finished fourth in Devon Merit one, which was a great achievement for the team, who backed up the first XV ably.

The Colts also had a good season, missing out on a play-off final only by points difference. The junior teams were probably more seriously affected by last winters’ weather than anyone, but the resilience and enthusiasm they displayed was incredible.

The older teams finished their season with a highly successful tournament weekend in Bournemouth where they came out winners in some sections of the competition.

The Okehampton RFC club Presentation Night was held on Saturday 28th May 2016 to celebrate the season. Club president Max Turner presented the awards to the players and club members.

Awards: First XV: Player of the year, No 8 Tom McGratton; most improved player, wing forward Liam Sampson; coaches award, prop Ian Langbridge; Ewen Trophy for the young player of the year, fly half Dan Fogerty; top try scorers, the whole of the forward pack; best performance as a team. away to Exeter University

Second XV: Player of the year, Ryan Lee; most improved player, Paddy Moyse; coaches award, Charlie White. Colts: most improved, the King brothers; players’ player, Brandon Horn; coaches’ award. Noah Nash. Other awards: Supporters award, first XV hooker George Trerise; B J Barkwell award, Adam Holiday; the Clubman trophy, retiring second XV captain Bruce Griffiths.