United Services Sets Sights on Growth and Success in 2025/26

With a successful 2024/25 season now behind them, the end-of-season events wrapped up and several key appointments filled, Lieutenant Commander Dave Thompson, Vice Chair of United Services Portsmouth RFC, shared an update on the club’s recent progress and its ambitions for the future.

Despite early challenges with player numbers, USP RFC finished a commendable third in the Counties Hants 2 division, trailing only behind strong Millbrook and Winchester II sides. This achievement was made possible by a dedicated core of long-serving players, effective recruitment—particularly among Serving Personnel—and the relentless efforts of outgoing Head Coach Pony Moore, Rugby Manager Joel Crooke and Jamie Campbell-Baldwin. While promotion remains a key ambition for the club, the leadership team agreed that without sufficient squad depth, a move up would have been unsustainable. As such, USP RFC will remain in the same division this coming season, with a renewed focus on building a stronger foundation.

The club is now entering a new chapter with changes in its coaching and management structure. Both Moore and Crooke have stepped down, and their contributions have been deeply appreciated. Taking the reins as Director of Rugby is Paul Colley, a seasoned coach and civil servant who also serves as Recruit and Attract Head of Marketing for the Royal Navy. Joining him is Karen Phillips, a former CPO WE, who brings a wealth of experience from her time managing rugby at establishment level, with USP, and most recently with Gosport and Fareham 1^st XV. Their appointments mark an exciting time for the club, with hopes that their leadership will attract new coaches and players to the fold.

Recruitment is already underway, and pre-season training is set to begin on 3 July. The club’s senior leadership has outlined three key priorities for the upcoming season: establishing a sustainable Senior Men’s 1^st XV, developing a Senior Men’s 2^nd XV, and introducing Women’s Rugby to USP. The overarching goal is to provide Serving Personnel, those in military support roles, and their families with an inclusive, enjoyable, and rewarding rugby experience.

This year the club’s senior leadership includes Club Captain Bailey Barnes; 1^st XV Captain Cam ‘Shetland’ Moore; Vice-Captains Olly Lilley and Ryan Ray.

On the administrative side, the club’s AGM will be held at the Rugby Club on Burnaby Road on 3 July at 1900. A new Chair will be elected following the departure of Bill Oliphant, who is stepping down after five years of dedicated service. The rest of the committee has confirmed their intention to continue in their roles, ensuring stability as the club moves forward.

Facility improvements are also in progress. With the clubhouse and grounds now under the stewardship of the CO of HMS Temeraire, Lt Col Roly Brading RM, the club has initiated several enhancements to improve the environment for all users. New bar furniture has been ordered, with delivery expected any day!

Looking ahead, Dave expressed confidence in the club’s trajectory. With strong leadership, a clear vision, and a growing community, USP RFC is well-positioned for a successful 2025/ 26 season—one that could see the club fielding two senior men’s teams and pushing for promotion to Hants 1.

As he prepares to take up a new role as SO1 Plans with the deployed Carrier Strike Group in August, Dave is working to ensure a smooth transition and a strong start to the season.

He ended with a call to arms for the wider rugby community: if you know any coaches, aspiring coaches, or players in the Portsmouth area looking to develop their skills, USP RFC offers a fantastic opportunity within a supportive and ambitious environment…

…and yes…there might even be some stash involved.

Image by K Woodland