‘The season 2023-24 is almost upon us and the Cinderford RFC Senior Squad are in preparation for their league openers on September 2nd . We now have consecutive home “friendlies” with strong opposition in the form of Llandovery (12th August) and Pontypridd (19th August) coming to Dockham Road.
From last seasons squad we have lost some significant players. Mike Austin, George Boulton, Harry Hone and Matt Lane have all departed for pastures new and we wish them all well. Between them they played 347 National League games for Cinderford and we were lucky to have them at our great club. All four made a massive contribution to Cinderford RFC rugby.
On the coaching front we also said goodbye to Andrew Stanley after eight seasons with us. He along with the players (mentioned above) enhanced Cinderford RFC rugby with his expertise and knowledge and helped establish ourselves in National One.
Clive Stuart-Smith remains as Head Coach but Tim Brockett now takes over as Lead Forwards Coach. Tim will be seen less on the field as a player as a result. We have added Matt Teague to our coaching roster. Matt is a full time coach at Gloucester Rugby and heads up their Under 18 programme. Matt has settled in well and our coaching team is cohesive and energetic.
The players have been training since June 29th and I am enthused by the depth, variety, enthusiasm and ability of the squad we have put together. We have welcomed some new players and all have settled well. You will be able to see them in action over the next few weeks. The retention of so many of our established players remains a bedrock for us to continue to build on. The fusion of existing and new players takes time and I urge patience from all supporters. I will have been DOR for eight years (in November) and I am as excited as I’ve ever been for any new season to begin – and this is my 43rd consecutive pre season! I am both optimistic and realistic as to what Cinderford RFC will achieve this season and my belief in the squad is total.
We have chosen Tyler Jerrum to be our new Captain. Tyler was voted Players Player of the Year last season and has taken to the captaincy in his stride. He is both popular and admired by his fellow players and coaching staff alike.
Finally I urge all our magnificent supporters to get behind the squad for 2023-24. There is no better place to play than Dockham Road and two exciting pre season games against quality opposition will hopefully set the tone for the league season. There will also be a fixture on Thursday evening 24th August at Dockham Road against Matson. I look forward to seeing everyone very soon. Cinderford RFC is special in many ways and will continue to be so.
Cheers
PM