Both the 1XV and 2XV teams face a challenging but exciting year ahead. The success of last season has led to both teams entering new leagues after winning promotion. The 1XV won 15 out of their 18 matches, ending 12 points in front of second placed Ashley Down Old Boys to gain promotion to Gloucester 1. The 2XV won 14 of their 18 matches snatching the league title by 1 point ending on 79 points with Wotton RFC finishing on 78. The 2XV have now been promoted to the highly competitive Bristol and District 1.

Leading the vision and direction on and off the field is Joe Batley. Batley is entering his third season with the Saints. The Bristol Bears second row has accepted the offer to this year step up as Head Coach of the senior teams. Joe has had a huge impact on the club ever since arriving in 2017. His vision, commitment and enthusiasm has rubbed off onto the players and this was clear to see with the club winning a double promotion last year. The club are extremely pleased to announce to have Batley’s services for another year.

Alongside Joe on the coaching staff is friend and fellow Bristol Bears player Harry Randall. Randall has taken up an Assistant coach role. Randall will mainly focus on the backs as part of his role as he begins his second season with Saints after taking over from George Perkins mid-way through the 2018-2019 season.

Dan Ford takes on his first men’s coaching role as he joins the Saints set up as Assistant coach, focusing on the 2XV. Ford has been at the club for 23 years and his resume includes 1XV captain, 1XV vice captain and club captain over a long and successful playing career at the club. After suffering a concussion injury Ford is turning his attention towards coaching.

With the success of last season, the captains remain unchanged for the season ahead. Iain McFarnon will start his third season as the 1XV leader with Trent Vaschalde skippering the 2XV.

Pre-Season training has already started and players have been put through their paces with a tough but enjoyable week. Training will continue at Coombe Dingle Sports Complex, 7pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. New players of all standards welcome to join.

For more information about joining us get in touch via Facebook or contact Sean on 07941 366 980 or email Sean.Wakeham@outlook.com