Based on the recent success of securing the Regional Two South Central title, Myles Landick, the head coach of Jersey Rugby Football Club, has expressed the club’s decision not to compensate players. Despite the club’s promotion to the fifth tier of English rugby, it has chosen to uphold its amateur status and abstain from offering remuneration to its players.
In an interview with BBC radio Jersey’s Sport Matters podcast, Landick articulated the club’s dedication to sustainability and the provision of playing opportunities for aspiring rugby players. He emphasized the club’s commitment to maintaining sustainability and providing a platform for young men and women to play rugby at the highest level possible.
This decision follows Jersey RFC’s second promotion in as many seasons, subsequent to the financial difficulties faced by the Jersey Reds, the Championship champions, which led to their dissolution in 2022. The clubs have since divided, with Jersey RFC and Jersey Reds now sharing facilities.
The rise of the club up the rugby pyramid was initially influenced by the recruitment of professional players, which has evolved into the current amateur model. Despite the absence of financial compensation, the team has demonstrated an impressive record of 18 wins out of 19 games this season, remaining unbeaten in securing the Counties One Hampshire title last year.
Looking ahead, Jersey RFC will compete in the fifth tier Regional One South Central next season, and has welcomed former professional Reds players who have opted to remain on the Channel Island. The transition from the previous arrangement with Jersey Reds to the current independent setup has brought about significant financial implications for Jersey Rugby Club, including new financial responsibilities such as covering bills for electricity, floodlights, and insurance.
The survival of Jersey RFC has been made possible by the hard work and dedication of the committee members, who have tirelessly committed to ensuring the continuation of rugby on the island. Landick expressed admiration for the committee’s efforts, acknowledging their hard work and the special contribution they have made to the club.
Despite the challenges, Jersey RFC remains devoted to upholding its amateur status and providing a platform for rugby enthusiasts to pursue their passion on the island. The decision to forgo payments to players underscores the club’s commitment to long-term sustainability and accessibility for aspiring athletes, contributing to the growth and development of the sport within the community.