‘Old Boys Day’ is the biggest day on the calendar for the Mudgee Rugby Club as past and present players and supporters come together to celebrate the history and tradition of one of the longest sporting clubs in NSW.

Mudgee rugby has a long, distinguished and rich history dating back to 1874.

They have been premiers in Central West Rugby on numerous occasions; their last premiership success was wining the Dave Lang Shield in both first and second grades in 2002.

Although they have been experiencing some difficult times since then, the 2009 Wombats’ are on the fringe of re-writing the history books as they sit on top of the competition table with semi-finals just around the corner.

A good mixture of ‘old heads’ and ‘new blood’ has helped the Wombats’ to be the dominant side in the President Cup competition.

The likes of Jamie Fitzgerald, Dusty Elsom and Cameron Beard have brought a fresh look and skill to the team, particularly Beard who has made the outside centre position his own since making his debut against Canowindra Pythons in May.

The 25-year-old has been playing rugby for the past six years and has relished every moment.

“Rugby is a good way of meeting people,” Beard said.

Beard is no stranger to Central West rugby; he played first grade for the Forbes Platypi in the Blowes competition last year.

Since moving to Mudgee earlier this year he has enjoyed playing rugby for the Wombats.

“It is going good... I’m playing in a team that has some talented players and characters.”

Coach Paul Harvey says his side is showing the skills of a premiership-winning team.

“We’re still unbeaten this season and hopefully we can continue that trend on Saturday,” Harvey said.

It will be another big test for Mudgee as their opponents, Coonabarabran, are currently sitting in fourth on the ladder.