I hope that everyone associated with Hertford Rugby Club is fit and well and staying strong as we see the early stages of easing of the COVID-19 restrictions.

As many of you will be aware there is no clear timetable for a return to community rugby - most recent speculation being Jan 2021. We are aware that many squads are eager to return and start training using the 5 players plus a coach “pod” approach. However, we are mindful that RFU advice strictly limits what activity can be undertaken - just fitness, strength and conditioning and no ball handling. We are therefore at this stage not advocating a return in June and will be looking at starting small group training at the beginning of July.

Senior Section Coaching Appointments

You’ll be pleased to hear that in the absence of rugby action we have been very busy in the weeks since we announced the appointments of Richard Gregg and Howard Parr as our Co-Head Coaches, supported by Robbie Morris and I’m delighted to provide you with the following further update with regards to coaching at Hertford Rugby Club.

2nd XV (Ex1st) - At the end of this season Tom Webb, 2nd XV coach has decided to return to Eton Manor and Dave Phillips assistant coach has decided to step down.
I’m sure you’d like to join me in thanking Tom and Dave for their contribution and wish them the best of luck in their future endeavours.

Nick Lacey will take over as 2nd XV coach with immediate effect. Nick has an extensive rugby CV that spans Shanghai RFC, Lyon RFC, Tabard RFC, Hemel Stags RL and Stevenage Town RFC. He is the Head Coach of our current U10 minis and has done a great job working with the 3rd XV for the last 2 seasons. Nick is also a former World and European BMX racing champion which he will love to tell you about up at the club!

3rd XV (Hoes) - The 3rd XV is a critical side where a blend of youth and experience sees graduates of the Academy joining senior players moving up and down the club team ladder.

We are actively searching for a 3rd team coach. If you would like to be considered for this important role, please contact Dave Hynard our Senior Coaching Coordinator on 07412 355108 or davidhynard@gmail.com. This is an exciting opportunity, as the club looks to build on the positive developments made by Nick Lacey during his time in this role. We will consider new coaches that are looking to gain experience in a lead coach role.

Olly Gawthorne will continue to coach and lead the 4th XV (Termites).

U16s
We have taken the decision to integrate the U16 age group into the Academy structure, this will smooth their transition to the Academy with the intention of maximising player retention and talent development. Training will take place on a Wednesday evening at 8pm and will mirror Academy Sessions planned by Michael Sargent the Academy Head Coach. Lee Wood will take a lead coach role responsible for U16s and will be supported by the resources of the Academy coaching team. This will provide a fantastic environment for the boys to develop, and will support our “one club” ethos, seeing boys progressing through the player pathway.

The PSC would like to take the opportunity to thank Pierre Bleriot and the current U15 coaching team for their care, dedication and commitment to the age group for the last 10 years as we transition to the new structure.

Please keep an eye on the club website for new and exciting developments for the coming season!