The 2002-2003 campaign saw a change of emphasis in the fixture list for the Dolphins.

Following 2 successive championship winning seasons in the Hants Merit Table, with our 1st XV promoted to National League 3 South, we were no longer eligible for the above. The fixture list took the form of matches against 2nd XVs from the National League, and the strongest of the local competition, in a bid to prepare those playing 2nd team rugby for the step up to National League action. In essence, this approach worked until, inevitably, the season tailed off in the latter stages as injuries took their toll, as did opposition availability.

The season kicked off with a physical encounter against Southampton 1sts which was won convincingly 46-12. The early season form continued with a good away victory at Westcombe Park, followed by a thumping victory against Old Colfeians 54-3. Portsmouth 2 and Chichester 2 were dispatched with ease before Barking 2 were defeated in a high scoring encounter 41-36, and Camberley smashed 57-5, before the highlight of the season a narrow victory over Portsmouth 1st team.

At this juncture of the season, the increased strength in depth of the club was evident, but defeats against a strong North Walsham side 10-18, and surprisingly, Winchester 2, followed as injuries began to bite. However, normal service was resumed when the double was completed over Westcombe Park, and close rivals Basingstoke were hammered at Down Grange followed by a festive victory over Millbrook 1st team. 

However, a combination of poor weather, late cancellations, and a crippling injury list led to a frustrating 2nd half of the season with numerous games cancelled, although victories were still recorded over Gosport and Fareham, and Worthing .

So, a season of ultimate frustration, but a lot of promise with a particularly impressive feature being the new young talent emerging from the Academy structure giving fresh impetus to the squad and providing the club with a solid foundation for the future. Also a big thank-you to the senior players for their support.

I look forward to the challenges of next season with relish.

Nick Wren

Dolphins Captain.