Oldham's Squad Strengthener proving invaluable

Oldham's Squad Strengthener, the fund that was originally established by the late Nigel Marland, is still proving invaluable in the recruitment of players.

Now run by John McAndrew, Nigel's successor as chairman of Oldham Roughyeds' Supporters Association (ORSA), it has been in operation for several years and has contributed significantly towards the signing of dual-reg and loan players.

So far this season Roughyeds haven't had dual-reg players, but they have now announced a new dual-reg link with Leigh Centurions and have, or have had, loan players from Wakefield Trinity in Lee Kershaw and Titus Gwaze and from Halifax in Adam Brook.

John has also revealed that Squad Strengthener assisted in the return of Danny Langtree to the Vestacare Stadium from Hull FC.

He said: "Squad Strengthener is supported by fans making regular standing-order payments or one-off donations, all of which are transferred to the club either monthly or as required."

Anyone interested in joining Squad Strengthener is asked to contact John McAndrew by phone (0161 633 1791 or 07980129541) or by email to: mcandrewj@aol.com).

Club chairman Chris Hamilton said: "Club Strengthener is a very important part of our fund-raising jigsaw.

"Funds go directly on players and I would urge fans and supporters to get involved and donate whatever they can. No amount is too small."

John has since written to ORSA members, pointing out that help is also required to enable ORSA to continue to support the players' needs via raffles, name cards and quiz nights.

All are welcome to attend the ORSA annual general meeting at the Vestacare Stadium on Thursday evening, June 20. It will be followed by a normal meeting.

Fans who shop online are also urged to join the 'easyfundraisingscheme', which has generated £100 for ORSA at no cost to shoppers.

Forty people signed up initially, but ORSA is urging as many members of the Roughyeds fan base as possible to get involved.

It doesn't cost a penny but assistance to ORSA is considerable.

By Roger Halstead