Hamilton, Diskin salute the work of ORSA

Oldham chairman Chris Hamilton is pictured (left) with Roughyeds head coach Matt Diskin

Following Oldham RL Club's acknowledgement of the part played by a fans' Club Strengthener scheme in the creation of a 27-man squad for 2021, Roughyeds have taken their appreciation a step further by placing the fans' group (ORSA) on a pedestal for their financial assistance during nine months of lockdown.

Said chairman Chris Hamilton: "ORSA has covered initial costs of special equipment which we needed for the return to training.

"Most of these costs were additional to what we would normally incur, and with no regular income for several months it was particularly helpful.

"They have also enabled us to buy new training equipment, including tackle shields and water bottles."

Head coach Matt Diskin said: "Clubs have had to take special measures and buy new equipment in order to combat Covid when they return to training.

"Chris (chairman) has done a fantastic job in bringing us to the starting line - we hope to start soon - but in terms of helping the club to finance essential equipment and materials, ORSA's assistance has been absolutely fantastic. "

ORSA secretary Grant Somerville said: “In such unprecedented times, we were keen to show our support for the club in a meaningful way.

"Despite a reduction in our funding potential, we wanted to give an early boost to the club’s staff.

"Now, more than ever, this seemed to be an appropriate time to help out."

The fund-raising group hope more fans will see the relevance of getting involved. 

For more information ring Grant or Sheila Somerville (treasurer) on (01706) 844810 or email them at: g.s.somerville@ntlworld.com

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