As Malvern Rugby Club end the first month of pre-season training, Director of Rugby Andy Longley expressed his delight at the response from his playing squad. “We have regularly had 40 players at each session, numbers without precedence at Malvern. The players’ interest and enthusiasm has been sparked by the guidance and exemplary thoroughness of Head Coach Liam Hughes, plus the varied routines being put in place by player/coaches Adam Billig and new boy Ben Gerry. Most pleasing has been the way Academy lads have worked with old and new players alike. Extra fitness on Saturday mornings under the guidance of fitness coach Matt Davis have been well received too and all helped to gel a very talented squad. Players recently rolled their sleeves up for a working party, all adding to the feeling that the more they put in the more they will get out. ”
“Both Billig and Gerry are former Leicester Tigers players and the skills they have learned playing in the Premiership and Championship are being lapped up by the lads” continued Longley. “In particular, Ben’s robust approach and excellent motivation has really bolstered and raised the bar for the forwards. His quiet yet determined methods have caught the players’ imagination, whilst Adam brings new ideas to the back division. Both are real assets and set just the right tone on and off the field.”
The senior players embark on a rigorous squad training weekend this Saturday and Sunday, mixing rugby with a variety of team building exercises, and then the season kicks off in earnest with a match away to last season’s league winners Bromsgrove on 20th August, while the Development and 3rd XVs entertain Hereford Greyhound at Spring Lane. World Cup international warm-up matches will also be featured on the big screen in the clubhouse. The following Saturday, 27th August, sees the First and Development teams host Newton Abbott, from National 3 South West.
In addition to all this activity, the Ian Budd Academy will commence full training on Thursdays as well as the seniors, after which there is a popular Open Mic 50s and 60s night with Vo Fletcher in the clubhouse to which all are welcome from 8.30pm. Any young players between the ages of 16-19 are invited to turn up at Spring Lane for a 7.00pm start on Thursday.
Longley finished by saying “There is a great sense of momentum at Malvern which we invite all players and supporters, old and new to join in. We look forward to the approaching season with great anticipation.” Any interested players please see the club website for details of training and events. A warm welcome is guarenteed for all.
