Chesham Rugby Club

What age did you start playing rugby?

Dabbled in it at School as part of PE, but didn’t really start until 21 when I came back from working abroad.

How did you get into rugby?

When I returned from travelling, Alex and Olly had been playing senior rugby for a season, and they said to me to come up to training and see how I got on and I haven’t looked back since. Also rugby has always had a household presence through our Uncle, Mike Chard, so I had a small head start.

Why do you play rugby?

It is a brilliant way to keep healthy, with a lot of fun chucked in. The physicality of rugby also appeals to me, I love to really smash it up! Also I think coming from a family of four brothers, the team mentality is something we have grown up with.

What do you enjoy about rugby compared to other sports?

I love the respect in rugby, shown to your team mates, your opponents (after the game!) and foremost the referee. Also the banter we have at a rugby club is next level. Some of the lads can really take the mick but it is entirely acceptable (when we are amongst friends) and people rarely take offence. And even if they do, they generally get the mickey taken even more.

What can rugby offer people/kids?

Rugby offers everyone and anyone the chance to get involved (at some clubs!). I think it can be immensely beneficial to some people and have heard of programs at some clubs who have helped Young Offenders with their rehabilitation into society. Kids can be helped with their introduction into social situations, by learning and growing as individuals as well as part of a team.

Why do you play rugby for Chesham Rugby Club?

I have only played rugby for Chesham and am proud to say so! There is real sense of pride and team spirit within the club, and I really feel that we would really go out of our ways to help each other out if needed.

What does it mean to you to play with your brothers?

It makes me proud every time I think about it. There is yet to be a league appearance with all four of us on the pitch due to university/work commitments, but when we have achieved this at our annual Overs/Unders match, it always seems special.

What does Chesham Rugby Club offer?

The Jaycocks Brothers! Ha, just kidding, I am unsure as to what other clubs have to offer but the real sales piece I think for Chesham is that you are measured on your personality alone. You’ll get taken the mickey out of you for anything we can but we never discriminate. We have people from all walks of life playing for us, from Financial Advisors to a Reverend via builders and students.

What does it mean to you to play for your town?

It is an honour to represent Chesham, and it is always a privilege to pull on the shirt. I really feel Chesham Stags Rugby Club helps the community, and brings the town together.

Why do you coach at the club?

I coach the U10s and I do so to give back to the club, and ensure the next generation of kids are coming through the club. Also, it’s a right laugh and the children really do the club and their parents proud. We have some quality youngsters coming up through the club, and I’d love to see one pulling on an England jersey and being able to say “I helped coach that player!”, oh and to swing some free tickets.

What are your plans for the future?

Try and score more points than any of my brothers!! Otherwise stay in the game as long as possible; perhaps do my coaching qualifications with the club.

Anything else?

Jaycocks’ Motto – Go Hard or Go Home