It is with great sadness that I inform our members and the wider rugby community of the passing of a true Sidmouth RFC legend and club patron, Bernard Holland.
Bernard was a special man. Not only a Sidmouth RFC player and 2nd XV captain, but someone who played a pivotal role in shaping the future of our club. Alongside Stuart Hayman, Bernard was instrumental in the revival of junior rugby at Sidmouth during the 1980s.
The junior side he coached went on to dominate Devon rugby for six outstanding seasons, winning every annual festival and eventually becoming Devon U16s champions, defeating Torquay 8–0 in the final. This was Bernard’s proudest achievement — and, speaking personally as one of his players, it was certainly one of mine too.
Bernard was a special man. Not only a Sidmouth RFC player and 2nd XV captain, but someone who played a pivotal role in shaping the future of our club. Alongside Stuart Hayman, Bernard was instrumental in the revival of junior rugby at Sidmouth during the 1980s.
The junior side he coached went on to dominate Devon rugby for six outstanding seasons, winning every annual festival and eventually becoming Devon U16s champions, defeating Torquay 8–0 in the final. This was Bernard’s proudest achievement — and, speaking personally as one of his players, it was certainly one of mine too.
That team, pictured above, went on to represent Sidmouth RFC at all levels. Over half progressed to play 1st XV rugby for the club, and many remain actively involved today, helping to run the club and coach the next generation.
Even in retirement, Bernard’s commitment to Sidmouth RFC never faded. He continued his affiliation with the club for many years, carrying out grass cutting and pitch maintenance duties at the Blackmore ground — a quiet but invaluable contribution that reflected his love for the club.
What an incredible legacy Bernard created at Sidmouth RFC. He will be hugely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him, but his influence and spirit will live on through the club for generations to come.
Matt Barrett
Chairman, Sidmouth RFC
Even in retirement, Bernard’s commitment to Sidmouth RFC never faded. He continued his affiliation with the club for many years, carrying out grass cutting and pitch maintenance duties at the Blackmore ground — a quiet but invaluable contribution that reflected his love for the club.
What an incredible legacy Bernard created at Sidmouth RFC. He will be hugely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him, but his influence and spirit will live on through the club for generations to come.
Matt Barrett
Chairman, Sidmouth RFC
