The decision to suspend all competition was a difficult one for
everybody, but the correct decision was made.
For
many, there will be far greater concerns than the club at this time, but we
know how strong our bond is with supporters.
The
local community and family are at the core of our values as a club, but they
feel more important than ever at this moment.
A
plan is being implemented to protect both playing and non-playing staff from
the virus, to attempt to ensure the club survives the uncertainty, but
uncertainty is the only answer that we currently have and it will test our
resolve to the limit. Our loyal fan base will be vital during this period.
Season ticket holders and lottery members, I cannot thank you enough.
Your
continued support will be critical throughout this period devoid of game-day
income and we urge you to continue showing your support whilst we are not
playing.
Fans
willing to support the club during this period can do so by joining our
lottery. There are numerous ways to join the lottery. We have introduced new
payment pathways for those willing to support the club in any way they can.
Everybody
associated with the club are going to carry on doing the best we can. Whether
you’re social distancing, in self-isolation or just trying to act more
conscientiously, continue to be your best self. Act with kindness, stay
connected to those vulnerable or lonely and stay responsible.
Although our photo archive is quite impressive there are some images of the players of Oldham RLFC that are missing or very poor in quality.
If you could fill in any of the gaps or provide a better quality photograph we would be glad to hear from you. Please contact the Trust via our email address: oldhamrl1895@gmail.com
Any addition to our collection is always greatly appreciated. Thanks.
The Heritage
Trust was sad to learn of the death of ex player Kevin Taylor. A member of the
club’s ‘Hall of Fame’ with over 400 appearances for the Roughyeds.
Indeed, Kevin was one of only seven Oldham players in over 125 years of Rugby League in Oldham to top the 400 games mark with 429 senior games for the Roughyeds.
Born and brought up in the
St Mary’s district of the town — an area that has produced numerous rugby
league players of repute over the years — Kevin signed for Oldham
shortly after his 16th birthday from the then Werneth club.
Originally understudy to Len McIntyre, he made his
senior debut at Castleford in the harsh winter season of 1962-63. The next
couple of years were spent mostly in the “A” team, but once Kevin got
an extended run in the senior side, he would hold down the Oldham
hooking position for the next decade. He was also a good player in the loose
especially his support play, which twice led to him being top try scorer in
1966-67 & 67-68. In all he scored 60 tries for Oldham
and kicked five goals.
Kevin was selected for the England Under 24 team against France in the match that was the first played under the new Watersheddings floodlights in October 1965 and went on to play for Lancashire and England. The full Great Britain international call up eluded him, yet week in and week out Kevin would rake out the ball on the Oldham side of the scrum against all his so-called peers. A model of consistency, Kevin played his last game at Salford on January 2nd, 1977 before moving on to Leigh. A great servant of the club and definitely one of the best hookers never to play for Great Britain!
The condolences of everyone
at the Oldham Rugby League Heritage Trust go to all of Kevin’s family and
friends.