Her reasons are totally understandable, as she must concentrate on her professional coaching career at London Irish. We wish Giselle every success in her endeavours and don't be suprised if she continues to rise through the coaching ranks to the highest echalons of the game. We knew she would be a hard act to follow. but I'm pleased to announce that a fantastic successor has been found.

Ben Pegna is now a few weeks into his role our Head Coach and he's already moulding the 1st and 2nd XV's into his own style and shape. Under Bens control our top two teams should be well prepared come the start of competitive matches on 15th September. Bens coaching ethos will also be spreading itself throughout the club in the coming months.

Ben has an excellent rugby CV, he was until recently the Performance Analyst for the England 7's squad. He's also plsyed at the highest level both with London Scottish in the UK and Potchefstroom in South Africa. He also represented England in the 7's squad in 2005. Ben is currently an RFU level 2 coach with recent experience as an assistant coach with the Scottish Exciles U20's. Ben is ably supported by our new Strength and Conditioning coach Dean Beaver who is on the lecturing staff at St Mary's University in Strawberry Hill.

We wish Ben and Dean every success in the coming season.