In this Volunteer Spotlight, we are honoured to feature Zoë Grix, a true cornerstone of Felixstowe Rugby Club, who has been involved since around 1994. Zoë’s journey with the club is a testament to the power of community, friendship, and the lifelong bonds that rugby helps to forge.

A Journey That Started With Friends and Family
Zoë’s introduction to Felixstowe Rugby Club began through her brother Mark and his friends. “My brother Mark and his mates played for the club, and I often answered the phone to Ty Woodward, who would regularly call Mark to encourage him to play,” Zoë recalls. One evening, while out in town with her girlfriends, Ty and some of the lads approached them about starting a women’s team. “Needless to say, we all got roped in!”
Although Zoë was at university at the time and unable to commit to regular training, the social side of the club perfectly fit into her schedule. “I became a regular on both sides of the bar, and the rest is history!”

From Supporter to Social Secretary and Beyond
Zoë’s involvement quickly grew beyond simply supporting the club. She started helping out behind the bar and cooking after-match meals for the players. Her social spirit led her to a pivotal role alongside her friend Jade Gooch, taking on the position of Social Secretaries. Together, they organised fancy dress socials, children’s parties, Halloween events, carnival floats, and even a barn dance at Suffolk Police Headquarters!

Her time at the club wasn’t just about fun—Zoë also ran a touch rugby club at the school where she taught, and her team’s success at school tournaments inspired many of her pupils to join Felixstowe Rugby Club when they were old enough.

Taking on the Role of Honorary Secretary
After a break from the club due to personal circumstances, Zoë was welcomed back with open arms. Her bar and waitressing duties resumed, but in 2018, Zoë took on the role of Honorary Secretary, a position she still holds today.

What Zoë Treasures Most About the Club
“The friendships I have made, maintained, and developed through the club are what I treasure most,” says Zoë. She recalls the joy of seeing her friends from the club bring their children to Coronation Park, watching the next generation bond over the sport and the club’s shared values.

One particularly poignant memory is the club’s dedication to her late brother Mark. “The club’s willingness to commemorate Mark and allow my family to present the Mark Grix Pride and Endeavour Award every year at Memorial Day means the world to us,” Zoë explains. The award is given to a youth or mini team player who exemplifies character, dedication, and resilience, honouring the legacy of her brother, who started his rugby journey at Felixstowe.

A Strong Sense of Community
Felixstowe Rugby Club is more than just a place to play—it’s a family. Zoë explains, “The club remembers its members, past and present. We come together to celebrate our shared love of the game and the amazing friendships that have grown on and off the pitch. No matter where life takes us, the club will always bring us back together.”

She continues, “One of my happiest memories was attending Nick and Jilly Ledger’s wedding in 2000, with a huge group of FRUFC members celebrating together. It was a perfect example of how the friendships forged at the club extend far beyond rugby.”
A Lifelong Commitment to Volunteering

What keeps Zoë volunteering? She says it’s the youth section of the club that inspires her. “What our coaches and sponsors provide for local youngsters is so important. If I can support their efforts by giving a little of my time, then I’m privileged to contribute.”

Zoë is quick to point out that volunteering at the club doesn’t always mean taking on a big role. “Rugby is so inclusive, and there’s a job for everyone, whether you want to use the skills from your everyday work or just do something completely different. You don’t need to be a player to get involved.” She explains that, for her, working behind the bar provides a chance to contribute while also socialising and stepping away from the stresses of her teaching job.

A Place for Everyone
“If you want to help, just come along on match days or training sessions. You’ll experience the warmth of our members, and there’s always a role to play,” Zoë advises. “Rugby is about inclusion. It doesn’t matter what your background is—everyone is welcomed and valued, and there are plenty of opportunities for volunteers to make a real impact on the club and the community.”
Join Us!

Zoë’s story is a beautiful reminder of the strong, supportive, and inclusive community that Felixstowe Rugby Club offers. Whether you’re looking to volunteer in a small way or take on a bigger role, there’s a place for you.

Come join us, make lifelong friendships, and experience the sense of pride and belonging that makes Felixstowe Rugby Club so special.