Darlington’s Mowden Park is offering rugby fans the chance to meet its new signings and current squad at the annual pre-season BBQ this Saturday.
Following on from the meet-and-greet, the team will then battle it out in their first pre-season fixture of the year, against Scottish team, Hawick.
Ahead of the start of the 2015/2016 season, the match will allow fans to watch new players, Italian back row Luca Petillo, Argentinian scrum Bruno Bravo and former Tynedale pair Ben Frankland and Matt Charters – in a game which promises to be exciting.
The quartet – who are sure to become firm fan favourites – already have a wealth of playing experience behind them.
Centre Frankland – who started his career as a flanker – was top try scorer for Tynedale for the past two seasons and was named in the Rugby Papers National League One team of the season last year.
Back-Row forward Charters, featured in all but one of Tynedale’s National League One games last season, and despite their relegation, was an influential figure for the club.
Petillo – who has joined the team from Cavalieri Prato – has been involved in the European challenge Cup, has 3 Italy ‘A’ Caps and has previously captained Italy’s U21 and U19’s.
Bravo makes his move from the Doncaster Knights and has won the Supporters’ Player of the Season Award in 2013/14 and has international honours with Argentina as a sevens player.
The stadium will open its doors at 12 noon, with the friendly kicking off at 3pm.
Danny Brown, Director of Rugby, said: “The pre-season game against Hawick is something we’ve been looking towards for a while now and with the new boys on board, the team is in brilliant shape and won’t be going down without a fight.
“With community at the heart of the Mowden Park family ethos, we welcome the public to the annual BBQ with open arms and can guarantee a fun-filled day, which never fails to disappoint.”
Prior to the experts taking to the field, a mixed O2 touch rugby competition will provide Rugby enthusiasts the opportunity to create their own memories by playing on their beloved pitch. From 12-2pm there will be no tackling, scrums or complicated rules, just plenty of fun for all those involved.
The competition – open to over 16s only – is expected to be in high demand, so be sure to register a team as soon as possible.
With something for all the family, Mowden’s BBQ has a number of activities scheduled throughout the day. A bouncy castle, face painting, a Paul Swift Precision Driving Team and an emergency services display will be available and food and drink will be served alongside a Star Radio Live Roadshow.
For Mowden fans the BBQ is also the perfect opportunity to buy or renew existing memberships. Entry on the day is free although the club does ask for a suggested donation from everyone attending the pre-season game.
Further information can be found at www.mowdenpark.com and the arena can be contacted by either email:info@mowdenpark.com or telephone: 01325 350267