"WELCOME TO THE PARADE"
"THIS evening we open our 1982-83 season by welcoming old friends, Penarth, to Rodney Parade. Our two clubs first met on 5th February, 1887, when the Black and Ambers under the captaincy of Welsh International Bob Gould were easy victors by 5 goals and 7 tries to Nil. Since that meeting our clubs have met on 153 occasions, with Newport winning 130, Penarth winning 15 and 3 being drawn. Last season Newport won by 34 pts to 10 pts here at Rodney Parade and it is interesting to note that 'Donkey Island' first became our traditional opening fixture in 1946-47."
"Recent years have been difficult for the Penarth Club with many changes in personnel both on and off the field. New coach John Huw Williams is well aware of the task he has taken on to try and revitalise the playing side and rekindle the success of the past. A great deal of hard work is necessary and the dedication shown by their most capped Welsh International, Jack Bassett, can be used as an example to present players as can the loyalty of Kevin Bush, a talented full back during his playing days who never stops working on behalf of the Club."
"Penarth have not beaten Newport since 7th September, 1957, which was one of their 6 victories achieved here at Rodney Parade, but it is certain that they will be giving everything to make a memorable start to the 1982-83 season."
"Welcome, Penarth."
"CLUB NOTES"
"History was created here at Rodney Parade during the close season when a Rugby Section was formed for the first time in Newport Athletic Club and the players being given the opportunity of having a say in the appointment of the 1st XV and United XV Captains."
"Under the new system, 18 Members were elected onto the Committee from the floor of the Inaugural Annual General Meeting of the Rugby Section and they contained 3 Members who were completely new in the persons of Doug Bowkett, David Hill and Haydn Mainwaring. Newly-elected Chairman Robert Atkins has held the post previously and he will be hoping for the same success, as it was in 1976-77, and as every Black and Amber supporter knows, "We Won the Cup". Secretary Doug Ackerman will have benefited from the experience he gained last season, which was his first in the position since succeeding 'Nick' Carter."
"Our most capped English International, Colin Smart, is in his second term as Club Captain and will be looking to re-establishing the Club in the Rugby World. Being a realist, he is well aware of the task but is confident that with the help of Club Coaches Tony Faulkner and Allen Evans, who is no stranger to Rodney Parade following his distinguished playing career in a Black and Amber jersey, United Captain Keith James and all the players, an improvement on recent seasons can be achieved."
"A new face will be seen looking after the playing kit this season in the person of Mostyn Brown, who has taken over from Mr. Fred Cox. He is well aware of the high standard set by Fred but is confident of ensuring that Newport continue to be a well-dressed team. It is impossible in such limited space to illustrate Fred Cox's great contribution to the glorious history of Newport Athletic Club and Newport Rugby Club. His life has been devoted to the Club, which was his home for so long. Thanks for the memories Fred, everyone in the Rugby Section wishes you a happy retirement and looks forward to seeing you in your capacity of Life Member for many, many years."