As the yuletide spirit envelops Penns Place this Saturday, there’s more than just mince pies and mulled wine on the agenda. It’s a bittersweet occasion as we bid farewell to a true club legend: Jason Ford, the man who’s been far more than a coach for Petersfield RFC. Though he’d modestly accept the label of coach, Fordy’s contribution over the past two seasons has been nothing short of transformative—keeping our senior sides thriving and laying the groundwork for a promising future.

Arriving at Penns Place in 2019 alongside head coach Jim Pearce and team manager Dave Duffus, Jason Ford quickly became part of a coaching trio that hit the ground running. Their impact was immediate and emphatic, with the team storming to a record-breaking 124-0 victory over Eastleigh RFC en route to a title-winning campaign. However, the triumphs of the 2019/20 season were abruptly cut short, with the final matches—and the entirety of the following season—cancelled due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

When Jim Pearce made a well-earned leap to National League side Worthing for the 2021/22 season, the reins fell to Fordy, who stepped up to guide Petersfield into the newly revamped London 3 South West. Under his leadership, the club found itself in a thrilling three-horse promotion race. A dramatic final-day 36-33 victory against Weybridge Vandals secured promotion to what was, at the time, Level 6—a historic high for the club. Fordy bowed out at the end of that season as a bona fide hero, his famous Harrington jacket symbolising not just his sideline presence but his enduring legacy. (Even if the RFU’s subsequent reshuffle took that milestone away, it remains etched in the club’s history.)

Fordy remained a steadfast ally to Petersfield, frequently appearing on Saturdays during the challenges of the 22/23 season. So, when Liam Perkins and Matt McLean took the helm in the summer of 2023, it felt only natural to bring back a man whose influence had already left an indelible mark on the club. The 23/24 season proved to be nothing short of magical, showcasing some of the finest rugby ever witnessed at Penns Place. Both the 1st XV and 2nd XV achieved well-deserved promotions in their respective leagues, with the 1st XV’s promotion from Hampshire Counties 1 finally realising Fordy’s vision from 21/22: Level 6 rugby, the pinnacle of Petersfield’s journey in the rugby pyramid.

This season, Fordy has excelled in nurturing talent, with a record number of debutants and youth graduates stepping confidently into men’s rugby. His legacy is clear—he leaves the club in a significantly stronger position than when he first arrived. Higher standards, an abundance of potential, and a sustainable future are all hallmarks of the Petersfield RFC he has helped shape.
But Fordy’s role transcends the technicalities of coaching. To the players, he has been a father figure, a motivator, and a rock. With the tactical tenacity of Rassie Erasmus and the man-management prowess of Sir Alex Ferguson, he has been the glue holding the senior setup together.

“Fordy has been a friend and mentor for many years, and is a hugely respected bloke in the local rugby community. Not only is he affectionately known as the ‘horse whisperer’ due to his unrivalled ability to get the best out of people, but he also has an incredibly high rugby IQ. His friendship is what brought me to this great club in the first place, and his rugby insights have helped me on my journey into coaching. I really can’t speak highly enough of him.”

– Liam Perkins

“As Fordy prepares to step down from his role, it’s the perfect time to reflect on everything he’s done for PRFC. Fordy has been the backbone of our team, dedicating countless hours to ensuring the team not only thrive on the pitch but also grow as individuals off it. His commitment to the club has been second to none.

Under Fordy’s guidance, we have developed into a cohesive, disciplined, and competitive team. His ability to connect with players has been instrumental in our success. Fordy has fostered a strong team culture built on respect, hard work, and camaraderie.

Fordy’s leadership has left an indelible mark on PRFC, and his impact will be felt for years to come. As we say goodbye, we want to thank him for his unwavering dedication, his belief in the team, and the countless memories he’s helped create.

From everyone at PRFC, thank you, Fordy—you’ll always be a part of our family.”

– Nick Blumlein

From everyone at Petersfield RFC, thank you, Fordy, for your tireless dedication and the countless memories you’ve helped create. You will forever be a legend at Penns Place.

Enjoy your final match, and to those in attendance this Saturday, make sure to buy him a pint (or two)—he’s earned it.

Once a Ram, always a Ram.