Volunteer of the Month - Chris Marchant

Cockies Fly Again: Chris Marchant Recognised in NSW Country Rugby’s Volunteer of the Month Program The Gloucester Cockies are back in action for the 2026 season, and it is largely thanks to the tireless efforts of Chris “Marcho” Marchant. As part of the newly launched NSW Country Rugby Union (NSWCRU) Volunteer of the Month program, an initiative designed to celebrate the unsung heroes of Country Rugby, Chris's monumental contribution to the grassroots game has been formally recognised. Nominated by Steven Rees from the Mid North Coast zone , Chris has been the primary driving force behind the Gloucester Rugby Union Club’s return to the Southern Mid North Coast competition. After a long hiatus, his dedication has seen the successful re-establishment of both the Men's 1st Grade and Women's Rugby programs. A True Clubman on and off the Field. Wearing multiple hats as a player, coach, and committee member , Chris has been volunteering his time and energy to the Gloucester and wider Southern MNC rugby community for many years. Turning ambition into reality is no small feat. Over the past month alone, Chris has been heavily involved in finalising the logistics of the club's 2026 season return. He has successfully juggled player recruitment, coordinated training sessions, and handled crucial club administration to ensure both the men's and women's programs are viable and competition-ready. According to his nomination, Marcho is the exact type of dependable and deeply invested volunteer that every community sports club relies upon. Whether he is organising game days, stepping up to coach, or just quietly completing the behind- the-scenes jobs that need doing, he is always willing to put his hand up. Rebuilding Pathways and Community Spirit. The ripple effect of his work goes well beyond the touchline. The revival of rugby in Gloucester strengthens the Southern MNC competition as a whole, providing a vital boost to community spirit, local sporting culture, and regional participation. Chris has actively helped rebuild rugby pathways in the area, creating an inclusive environment where players of all ages and backgrounds feel welcomed, supported, and proud to represent their local town once again. As noted in his nomination, the return of the Gloucester Cockies to senior rugby competition simply would not have been possible without the profound dedication and persistence shown by Chris. He consistently turns up for his club and community, often without recognition, simply because he cares deeply about the game and its people. Ultimately, Chris Marchant represents everything that community rugby is built upon: hard work, commitment, and selfless volunteering. NSW Country Rugby are proud to celebrate Chris and his dedication to grassroots rugby. The NSWCRU Volunteer of the Month program celebrates the extraordinary individuals who give their time, energy, and passion to grow rugby across Country NSW. Nominations remain open to all clubs and zones.