Ipswich Rugby Club optimistic about future as appointments are made to playing side

Three new coaches have been joined the Humber Doucy Lane club from outside, while several new committee members have been appointed.

New club chairman Mike Hancock , who has a long association with the club as player, coach, fundraiser, youth chairman and director of rugby, stretching back nearly 40 years, is upbeat about the club’s prospects this season.

“The priority is to get the playing side of the club in the best possible shape and that is why we have invested in proven quality coaches from outside the club to help us progress quickly,” he said.

“We have three solid senior teams with some super youngsters coming through to put pressure on established players.

“Pre-season training will be demanding but also a lot of fun. ”

A new recruitment drive is in place with joint vice-chairman David Dodds leading the campaign to attract new sponsors to the club, whilst last year’s director of rugby, Tim Lloyd, now shares the vice-chairman role, but with his emphasis being on the playing side.

Nick Greenhall is the new head coach and Director of Rugby. Greenhall possesses a coaching CV that has already got the players, club coaches and supporters buzzing.

Greenhall’s role encompasses coach development at all levels within the club so there will be an ongoing programme of raising standards.

He will be supported by Spencer Williams who is a forwards specialist and Marcus Tobin, who was head coach at unbeaten London 3 side Hackney RFC last year.

Ipswich’s three senior sides and U18 colts will train on Tuesdays and Thursday s from 7pm with the club also running sessions for ladies, girls and juniors from under six-years old upwards.

The first senior pre-season training session is on Tuesday July 4 and the club play their first London 2 fixture at home to Epping Upper Clapton on September 9.

New players are very welcome and can get in contact the club on club@ipswichrugby.com or by telephoning 01473 724072.