Bedford Blues - A Winning Matchday with Icom Radios

In the heart of Bedford, a town renowned for its passion for rugby, lies Goldington Road, the home of Bedford Blues. For over two decades, this historic club has used Icom licence-free radios to ensure seamless and clear messaging for their coaching department. From the tried-and-tested IC-4088SR to the latest IC-U20SR, Icom radios have proven to be an indispensable tool for the rugby department at the Blues; delivering concise, reliable communication essential for managing the intense demands of high-pressure sport.

Founded in 1886, Bedford Blues play in the RFU Championship, the second tier of English rugby. With a rich history and a strong connection to the town, the Blues have become a cornerstone of the local community. Their home ground, Goldington Road, boasts a capacity of over 5,000, and the club consistently draws the highest average attendance in their division, averaging over 3,000 spectators last season.

Bedford holds a unique place in English sporting culture, being the second-largest town (behind Wakefield) where rugby, rather than football, is the most recognized sport. Notable achievements include their 1975 RFU Club Competition victory and periods in the top-flight Premiership in the late 1990’s. The Blues are also renowned for their role in developing young rugby talent, with 43 players earning international caps while at the club, and three players representing the British Lions.

Furthermore, the club's commitment to inclusivity is evident through its thriving women's team, established in 2020, and its expansive mini and junior section, boasting over 500 members. Notably, Bedford Blues has also been the only rugby club in England to breakeven or make a small profit financially in recent seasons, and they are custodians of the town.

Matchday Communications: The Vital Role of Icom Radios.

For Bedford Blues, delivering the best matchday experience for their dedicated fanbase is of paramount importance. As well as a wide offering away from the field of play, they pride themselves on an expansive, attacking style of play that has been the hallmark of the club for nearly a century.

Goldington Road has become one of the largest social scenes in Bedford on any given matchday, but edge of the seat drama and anticipation is required from the team on the rugby pitch to keep the spectators coming back through the turnstiles.

With those large crowds and activities spanning every corner of the ground, reliable communication is essential. The club use Icom licence-free radios to address various communication needs, particularly the on-the-field support and coaching team.

Bedford Blues Director of Rugby, Mike Rayer said: “It is of paramount importance to us to have quick, efficient messaging across everyone in the rugby department with the Icom radios; namely myself and the coaches, S&C and our medical team.“

“The timing around tactical decisions and injury replacements has to be instantaneous and actually, this season I’ve noticed a particular marked improvement in the speed of communication.

“We are extremely grateful to Icom for their continued support and look forward to working together well into the future.”

For many years the club has used our reliable IC-4088SR PMR446 licence free radio. They have now been replaced with Icom’s latest licence free radios, the IC-U20SR which has further helped the coaching staff’s communication capabilities and operations. The Icom radios have consistently delivered excellent audio clarity and reliable performance, crucial for maintaining order and responding swiftly to any situation.

To learn more about the club, visit the website: 'Bedford Blues Website'

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29/04/2025