CLAYTON, NC – The Clayton Rugby Football Club is proud to announce that Simon Potter has been named Club Captain for 2016. Potter, a native of Ireland, has been with the Club from the very start. He was one of the few players to attend the very first Bootleggers training session in April of 2014. Since coming to Clayton he has become a valuable and well respected member of the Club. Potter brings a wealth of experience in both 7s and XVs to the Clayton RFC having played hooker and flanker for Dungannon RFC in Ireland and 7s for the Ulster Exiles.
“It’s an honor and a privilege,” said Potter in response to his appointment. “I look forward to taking on the role and helping the club move forward.”
Since joining the Bootleggers, Potter has played a variety of positions including scrumhalf, fullback, and flanker. With the club adding depth during the off season, Potter is set to make a permanent move to the Bootlegger’s back row for the 2016 season. With his appointment, Potter becomes the first player in Club history to be named Club Captain. He’ll not only serve as a leader within the Club on and off the pitch, but also as a conduit between the players to the coaching staff and Board of Directors.
“We’ve had the position in our bylaws from the beginning, but didn’t feel we were quite ready to name a Club Captain until recently,” said Club President Ted Hardy. “As we continue to push our teams forward in regards to their level of play, it is important that we have experienced leadership both on and off the pitch. We also want to ensure that there is never any disconnect between our players and our Board. The guys love Simon and we’re excited to see him in this role.”
The Bootleggers are off to a solid start to their Spring 2016 campaign. The 1st XV is currently 3-1. The squad is preparing to make the trip to Savannah, GA next weekend as they’re playing in the St. Patrick’s Day Tournament. After returning from Savannah, the men from Clayton travel to take on the Charlotte Barbarians before finishing the Spring with four home games.
About the Clayton RFC
Founded in 2013, the Clayton Rugby Football Club is a men’s rugby program located in Johnston County, NC. Since starting with just seven players, the club has grown to almost 50 players. The club has a family friendly culture with a focus on community. The club currently fields three teams in XVs with competitive, developmental/social, and Old Boys as well as two 7s teams during the Summer. Players looking to learn more about the club or join are encouraged to contact us at claytonrfc@gmail.com. No prior experience is necessary.
