Pre-Season Is Underway at Croydon Wanderers—And There’s Always Room in the Squad
With our first league fixtures coming up fast in September, pre-season training officially kicked off in July and continues throughout August. We’ve already had a few great sessions under our belt, and the energy around the squad is brilliant.
Whether you’re a returning regular, a lapsed player looking to get your boots back on, or a total beginner who’s only ever played Touch Rugby, you’re warmly invited to join us. Pre-season isn't just about blowing off the cobwebs; it’s about coming together as a group, supporting each other, and laying the groundwork so we can compete at our best this season.
Croydon Wanderers RFC Pre-season training leads to in-season winning.
Here is what we’re focusing on right now and why it’s a great time to jump in
Fitness Built Around the Game
After a few months off, everyone’s match fitness needs a top-up. Reaching peak condition before September gives us a real edge on Saturdays, but we don't believe in running mind-numbing laps in the dark.
Our coaches structure our sessions around high-tempo, rugby-focused drills so you get match-fit while actually enjoying yourself. Having access to the club gym is a huge bonus during this period, too. From a coach's perspective, the best thing is seeing progress across the board—every year, guys who join us mid-summer end up pushing hard for team selection come September.
Core Skills—Building Everyone Up
Our core vision as a club is simple: bring as many people into rugby as possible. That philosophy sits right at the heart of how we develop our 1st Team and wider squad.
We dedicate plenty of time in training to honing individual skills—from catch-and-pass quality to safe, effective technique in the contact area. If you’re returning after a hiatus or learning the game for the first time, don't worry about being behind. Our coaches make sure no player gets left behind.
Team Strategy & Game Understanding
Individual skill only takes us so far—we need all 15 players on the same page. During these summer weeks, our coaches work closely with the group to develop our tactical approach, working through:
Set Pieces: Getting organised at scrums, lineouts, mauls, and rucks.
Structure: Positioning in attack, defence, restarts, and transition play.
Match Scenarios: Learning to recognise our collective strengths and adapt during games.
A Proper Rugby Community
Rugby is The Team Sport by essence. Rugby is unique because it requires all different body types, strengths, and play styles to build a functional side. Every role matters, and every player is valued here.
Welcoming new faces and keeping a warm, inclusive environment is just who we are at Croydon Wanderers. That starts on the pitch and carries straight into the clubhouse. After training, we sit down together for a drink, a chat and a good laugh. That camaraderie is the backbone of our club.
Come Down This Thursday
If you’ve been thinking about getting involved, stop overthinking it and drop by.
Where: Croydon Wanderers RFC, 135 Addington Road, West Wickham BR4 9BF
When: Every Thursday night at 7:30 PM
What to bring: Boots, water, and an eagerness to learn (we'll handle the rest)
If you have any questions or just want to let us know you're coming down for your first session, drop us a line or message the club pages on Instagram or Facebook.
Hope to see you on the pitch this Thursday!
JC Di Schino
Director of Rugby