Quins Programme 21st Feb 2026 by OxfordQuins

rugby manager

This Saturday marks a truly special milestone for Allan “Purch” Purchase as he reaches his 300th cap for Oxford Harlequins Rugby Club. Achievements like this are rare in any sport, and even rarer in community rugby, where commitment, resilience and love of the game matter far more than statistics.

Purch’s journey in rugby began at just four years old, pulling on a shirt for Chinnor and progressing through minis, juniors and academy rugby before eventually finding his long-term home with Quin’s. From his first-team debut in 2009 to captaining sides and representing Oxfordshire, his story has always been one of quiet determination, hard work and loyalty to the teams he serves.

Reaching 300 appearances is not simply about longevity; it is about character. It reflects years of sacrifice, friendship, setbacks, triumphs and an unwavering connection to this club Everyone involved with Quin’s is immensely proud of what Purch has achieved, and it is a privilege to have shared so much of that journey with him

On behalf of the coaching team and the entire playing group, congratulations Purch — and thank you for everything you continue to give to this club

Across the years we have seen him grow not only as a player, but as a leader and a role model He plays the game the right way with honesty, humility and total commitment to those around him. Younger players coming into the club see in Purch exactly what community rugby should represent: turning up week after week, giving everything for teammates, and valuing the club badge above personal recognition.

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For those who know him around the club, Allan “Purch” Purchase is far more than a player approaching a milestone appearance he is a teammate, a leader, a volunteer and, above all, a true embodiment of what Oxford Harlequins Rugby Club stands for

Purch’s rugby journey began at just four years old and has been shaped by years of dedication, perseverance and love for the game. From junior rugby through academy pathways and into senior men ’ s rugby, he has built a career defined not simply by achievement, but by loyalty and character. His path ultimately led him to Quin’s, where he has become a central figure both on and off the field.

It is a genuine honour to work alongside him, and everyone connected with Quin’s players, volunteers, families and supporters is immensely proud of what he has achieved Purch represents the very best of our club, and this milestone is richly deserved

Congratulations, Purch. Thank you for everything you have given, and continue to give, to your club

This weekend, we extend a very warm welcome to Dorking Rugby Football Club, their players, coaches and travelling supporters. We hope you enjoy your visit and look forward to a competitive, healthy and entertaining match played in the very best spirit of the game.

His commitment over so many seasons represents everything that community rugby is meant to be Week after week, year after year, Purch has given his energy, resilience and heart to the club not for personal recognition, but for teammates, friendships and the honour of representing the shirt Reaching 300 caps is a remarkable sporting achievement, yet it is the dedication behind those appearances that truly defines the milestone

And if 300 appearances were not enough, Purch has also taken on the vital role of Club Secretary, committing unseen hours to ensuring the club remains strong, organised and sustainable for future generations This willingness to serve speaks volumes about the kind of person he is and the value he places on community sport

With the excitement of the Six Nations Championship capturing everyone ’ s attention at this time of year, it is a timely reminder of how special rugby is at every level from the international stage right down to community grounds like ours Today is about celebrating that shared passion. We wish both sides the very best and look forward to an enjoyable afternoon of rugby

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Allan “Purch” Purchase is a unique man in the modern game in many respects. While always striving to be the very best he can be on the pitch, he has never lost sight of the bigger picture the true meaning of community rugby at grassroots level and the role a club plays in people’s lives. That understanding sits at the heart of everything he brings to Oxford Harlequins Rugby Club

Having been part of the club for so many years, and having experienced the inevitable ups and downs, highs and lows that come with sport, there are very few people who know Quin’s better than Purch. His connection to the club runs deep, built through commitment, leadership and an unwavering belief in what this place represents.

Beyond the humour, his leadership in the seasons that followed was instrumental in the club’s success and progression, helping drive the promotions that took us to Level 4 Throughout it all, Purch remained calm, thoughtful and relentlessly positive someone whose opinion I value greatly on every aspect of the rugby club, both on and off the field

He is a brilliant rugby player with a heart as big as a lion, and without question a true club legend. The reality is that they do not make many like Purcho anymore That makes moments like this all the more special, and all the more important to savour.

So this week, as he reaches the remarkable milestone of 300 1st team caps, we celebrate not just the number, but the man behind it his character, his loyalty and everything he represents.

To Purcho.

Purch first captained the 1st XV between 2015 and 2017, but it was during the extraordinary 2020/21 season delayed until May as rugby returned that he once again took on the skipper’s role I still remember his return with long flowing hair, looking every bit like a towering French lock from the south of France. From that moment on, “Jean-Pierre Purcho” was born

Pete Davies

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Access

Due to the coming seasons increased costs, the Exec have taken the difficult decision to review the entry price to 1st XV home games for the 2025/2026 season. We’ve benchmarked against other clubs in the league and our Supporters Club members' benefits are still the most generous. Forthe2025/2026seasonthe1stXVentryprice willbe:

Non-Members

£12

Seniors (65+)

£9

U16 Free

Members

Supporters Club Members

£5

Senior Playing Members & Partners iIncluded in their membership

M&J Parents included in their membership

All other Members' benefits remain unchanged and entry to Men's 2s & 3s, Women's 1s & 2s will continue to be free.