Calne Rugby Club is looking for new players to help rebuild its senior men's squad, with chairman Pete Brownlie saying the club has strong foundations and big ambitions despite facing a difficult period.
The club has been appealing to current and former players, as well as people who might be interested in taking up rugby, after struggling to raise enough players to fulfil its league commitments.
A recent fixture against Pewsey Vale had to be cancelled because the club was unable to field a team.
Pete said the problem had developed as a group of long-standing players began to retire or step away from the game, without enough new players coming through to replace them.
"We've had a fantastic core of players who have given years of commitment to the club, but inevitably that group is getting older, with some retiring or stepping away from the game. Unfortunately, we haven't been able to bring enough new players through to replace them," he said.
He also pointed to the number of rugby clubs in the surrounding area, all competing for players from what is a relatively small pool.
"Recruiting new players into grassroots rugby is becoming increasingly difficult," he said.
But Pete is keen to make clear that the club is not giving up.
"Calne Rugby Club is far from finished. In fact, we've got some big ambitions," he said.
He said a lot of work had gone into improving the club behind the scenes over recent years, with a committed committee, dedicated coaching team and people who genuinely care about its future.
"We've made huge strides in how the club is run, and we're determined not to let our current playing numbers undo that progress."
The club now wants to hear from experienced players looking for a new challenge, people who have been away from rugby for a few years and complete beginners who might fancy giving the sport a go.
Pete said the response to its recent social media appeals had been overwhelming, with messages of support from former players, neighbouring clubs and people across the local rugby community.
He said it had been a reminder of just how much Calne Rugby means to people.
"We're not looking to blame anyone for the position we're in. Rugby clubs go through cycles, and unfortunately we're at a difficult point in ours. But I genuinely believe we've got the right foundations to come out of this stronger."
The club is holding a meeting on Wednesday, 11th November, from 7pm to 8pm in the Pavilion Room at Beversbrook Sports Facility.
Current players, former players, potential new recruits, coaches, volunteers and anyone who wants to help are welcome.
The room is to the right of the entrance hall.
The meeting will give the club an opportunity to explain where things stand, discuss the options and look at how it can move forward.
The club is hoping to attract enough new players to rebuild its squad and continue providing rugby in Calne for future generations.
