As the club approaches its 150th anniversary, Plymouth Albion has outlined an ambitious new strategic plan focused on returning to Champ Rugby, with the ultimate goal of becoming Premiership-ready. (Photo Credit: Plymouth Albion)

Last season, Plymouth were among a cluster of clubs to submit an application for the revamped ‘Champ Rugby,’ and Albion are now firmly focused on securing promotion to the second tier.

Back-to-back top-four finishes, which included a 10-match winning streak last season, perhaps indicates their readiness to compete alongside established sides such as Bedford, Coventry, and Cornish Pirates while their home ground of Brickfields already meets all the necessary criteria for Champ Rugby.

On last year’s National League Rugby Preview Show, Media, Marketing and Community Manager Paul Nicholson didn’t shy away from Plymouth’s aspirations, and the club’s focus now shifts to delivering strong performances on the pitch, supported by a dedicated team behind the scenes.

The club also confirmed that season ticket sales are up, while over 20 new business partners have joined this year, and its community programme continues to grow through school outreach and rugby camps.

And all of this feeds into Albion’s 10-year vision to become a club capable of competing in the Gallagher Premiership. Supporting this is a five-year mission to establish the club as a sustainable, competitive Champ Rugby side – underpinned by strong governance, elite facilities, and deep community engagement.

Their plan is built on five pillars:

Performance Pathway – Elite coaching, player development, and facilities.

Community & Culture – Stronger links with schools, grassroots clubs, and local partners.

Commercial Growth – Expanding revenue through partnerships and sponsorships.

Operational Excellence – Modern, professional club infrastructure.

Fan Engagement – Enhanced matchday experiences and supporter growth.

This fresh outlook for Albion feels like the start of a new chapter for a club that experienced relegation from Level 2 in 2015 and subsequently administration in 2016. Rescued by former players David Venables and Bruce Priday, the club has rebuilt on firm foundations and now looks to the future with optimism.

Speaking to Plymouth’s channels, Max Venables, Managing Director said: “As we approach 150 years of Albion, we’ve taken the time to reflect on what this club has meant to Plymouth, to rugby, and to the people who have shaped it but this is more than a moment to look back – it’s a moment to look forward. We are laying the foundations now to ensure that the next 150 years are even more remarkable than the last.

“This is a once-in-a-generation moment. We have the history, the heart, and the hunger – now we have a plan. We’re calling on everyone who believes in Plymouth Albion to join us as we write the next chapter together.”

“Premiership rugby isn’t just about being at the top of the table – it’s about acting like a top-tier club in everything we do,” added James Greenacre, Albion’s Commercial Director. “That means investment in infrastructure, people, and partnerships – and it means having a plan that’s bold, smart, and sustainable.”

Plymouth will kick off their National One campaign with a trip to newly promoted Leeds Tykes on September 6th, before returning to Brickfields to host newcomers Clifton in Round Two.

For information, visit  https://plymouthalbion.com/albion-launches-vision-mission/

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