With any new season there comes a sense of optimism in what can be achieved, the anticipation of the challenges ahead, and the recognition that the rewards will be determined by the collective effort both on and off the pitch.

So if the last four roller coaster seasons are anything to go by then hold on tight for yet another exhilarating ride.

This season starts with some key changes. After great service, Stuart Robson leaves his position as Head Coach and we all wish him well with his new challenges, and we welcome the new Head Coach Ross Radford and Assistant Coach David Bains and look forward to the impact that they can make this season.

Having served as an excellent Club Captain for four years, Clayton Fox led from the front in winning promotion twice and leading his team on the pitch and in coaching with the challenges of Division 2 rugby, but for the new season Jordon Wright takes up the challenge of being the Club Captain and leading the 1st XV in the fight for promotion from the Durham and Northumberland Division Three.

Alex Roper takes on the 2nd XV Captaincy and when the vacant coaching position is filled the 2nds can look forward to another year of growth, development and challenges in the River Coquet league.

Continued development of the junior section through the Wolfpack is a vital building block for the future of the club.

The election of the committee for the season ahead at the AGM see familiar faces being joined by new ones in leading the club forward over the season and beyond. It is their voluntary efforts that keep the club running and ensures that there are games of rugby for the players to compete in and for the supporters to enjoy.

Have a great season everyone and make your contribution count.

Michael

(June 2017)