18th May 2026
Chinnor RFC have hailed one of the most successful and emotional seasons in the club’s history, with achievements spanning every level of the game, from a remarkable fifth-place finish in the Championship to league titles, cup victories, and growing success across the youth and community teams. In his end-of-season address, chairman Nick Stainton reflected on a year of pride, progress, and unity at Kingsey Road, while also paying tribute to the late CEO Simon Vickers, whose legacy continues to shape the club.
CHAIRMAN’S END‑OF‑SEASON REPORT
'As another unforgettable season draws to a close at Kingsey Road, it’s impossible not to feel immense pride in what this club has achieved together. Across every corner of Chinnor RFC - from the First XV to our youngest age groups - this has been a year defined by ambition, resilience, and a deep sense of belonging.
A Historic Season in the Champ
Our First Team delivered a campaign that will be remembered for years. Finishing 5th in the Champ - placing Chinnor as the 15th best team in English rugby - is an extraordinary achievement. It reflects the character of this squad, the clarity of our coaching group, and the unwavering support from our community.
Victories over Cornish Pirates, Coventry, Bedford and Worcester were not just results; they were statements. Moments that lifted the ‘roof’ off Kingsey Road and reminded us all what this club is capable of when belief meets hard work. Even narrow defeats against Ealing and Worcester are still ringing with positive vibes.
Success Across the Club
This season wasn’t only about the First XV. It was a year where the entire club rose together.
• Wildboys – League Champions and County Cup winners
• Outlaws – League Champions
• Colts – BBO League Champions
• U13s – Oxfordshire County Cup Winners
• Representative Honours – A growing list of boys, girls, and now Kites players proudly wearing county, regional and national colours
• SEND - our newest team was born. Playing at KatieFest and growing in confidence and numbers each week. We have the pleasure hosting KatieFest next season and we’ll do it proud.
To every player who pulled on a Chinnor shirt this season: you have taken this club to a better place. You are a credit to yourselves, your families, and our crest.
Our People Make the Difference
None of this happens without the extraordinary people who give their time, expertise, and passion to Chinnor RFC.
To our coaches, our tireless volunteers, our committee, our loyal sponsors, and our incredible supporters — thank you. You are the heartbeat of this club.
And to our small but exceptional staff team, who have made Kingsey Road a welcoming, professional, and vibrant home for rugby and community life — your contribution has been immense.
Celebrating the Good, Remembering the Sad
This season brought joy, pride, and unforgettable moments. But it also brought sadness.
We lost our CEO, Simon Vickers — a man whose influence, leadership, and love for Chinnor RFC shaped the club we are today. His absence is felt deeply, but his legacy will continue to guide us.
Looking Ahead
For now, enjoy the off‑season. Let the dust settle. Reflect on what we’ve achieved together. And then, with renewed energy, we’ll turn our focus to the ambitions that lie ahead.
Before we close the book on this season, we will come together to celebrate our senior players on Friday 29th May. I hope you can join us as we raise a glass to those who have given us so much pride and pleasure.
Thank you — for everything you’ve done, everything you’ve given, and everything you continue to believe in. We’ve been loud and I’m sure we’re feeling very proud. I know, I am.
Up the Chinnor.
Nick'
