Our pitches are working harder than ever this season, and with winter setting in, a little care from everyone goes a long way. Here is a simple message for all players and coaches.

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R – Rotate scrum & lineout areas
Move heavy forward drills and set pieces around the pitch to avoid excessive wear in one spot.

E – Ease off the try lines & 22m
Keep unnecessary training out of in-goal areas, try lines and other high-wear zones.

S – Stay off waterlogged ground
If the pitch is saturated, avoid using it unless absolutely necessary.

P – Protect repaired areas
Keep away from newly seeded, divoted or repaired sections to allow recovery.

E – Encourage good habits
Replace turf divots after scrums and rucks, and avoid studded boots on damaged areas.

C – Change warm-up locations
Warm up off the main playing surface where possible, or vary the area used.

T – Think long term
One poor session in wet conditions can cause damage that affects future matches and training.

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As the Chair mentioned in his November update, wherever possible please use the cricket outfield at the top of the club or the Paddock for training, and keep the rugby pitches for matches and specific run-throughs.