Rugby values at heart of Hambly’s deserved honour

DURING these challenging times, it is encouraging to note that the value of inspirational leadership and the collective strength of community rugby clubs was recognised in the recent New Year’s Honours by the award of an OBE to John Hambly from Surrey.

As detailed in his gripping book, Samson Rising, when he led the development of the Samson Centre for MS in Guildford, he drew heavily upon his learning as a rugby player and successful captain.

He would also be the first to acknowledge the significant contributions of his former teammates at Actonians RFC through their exceptional fundraising and support that exemplify the true values of community rugby.

As we look forward hopefully to the eventual restart of local club rugby, let’s make sure we remain mindful of not only rugby’s formal values, i.e. teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportman ship, but also the special aspects of humanity that the game engenders – camaraderie, loyalty, commitment and support for others.

Congratulations John Hambly for leading the way and well done Actonians RFC for ‘walking the talk’.