Dan Kirby honoured and privileged to take on Stratford RFC captaincy
NEW skipper Dan Kirby says it will be a ‘special moment’ to lead Stratford out onto the hallowed Pearcecroft turf for their season opener against Ludlow this Saturday.
Second row Kirby told the Herald it is an “honour and a privilege” to have taken over the reins as captain from Matt Cook and is hoping he can help the club challenge at the top end of the restructured Regional Two West Midlands table this season.
“Stratford has such a proud history and it’s amazing to have the opportunity to play my own little part in that,” said Kirby.
“The club had some really strong years under Matt’s stewardship, so I have some big shoes to fill but it’s something I’m relishing and I’m immensely proud to be captain.
“Playing at Pearcecroft always means more and it will be a special moment to lead this team out on Saturday. It’s going to be a case of taking it all in, enjoying the moment and doing the captaincy justice.”
One of Stratford’s strong points last season was their imperious home form. From their 13 home games, the Black and Whites only failed to win on three occasions, losing to Newbold-on-Avon and Stoke, and drawing with Kenilworth.
And Kirby hopes Pearcecroft remains a fortress once again this term. “Playing in front of a home crowd is fantastic. We have a loyal bunch of followers who make a difference, so we want to make home a fortress again.”
