Spring in their step as Malvern gear up

Re-appointed Director of Rugby David Robins was in buoyant mood.

"Although we don't officially start training on Tuesdays and Thursdays until next week, on July 6, we have had up to 30 players at Spring Lane throughout the close season keeping fit with touch rugby sessions," he said.

"When training begins in earnest on Tuesday, we hope that players from all levels will attend, especially as our expanded facilities will help us cope better.

"New floodlighting and upgrades to the existing training area mean we will have almost three times more space on which to train," he added.

"We will also be expanding our coaching staff, so more time can be spent with all grades of player and we will be able to integrate ladies training as well."

New first XV captain Matt Richardson is delighted that Malvern have retained all of last season's squad and looks forward to welcoming several new additions in key playing positions.

"We hope to announce some significant new signings over the next few weeks" added Robins.

"Some of our senior players are dropping to the second XV under the captaincy of Vince Hill, which will give us a mixture of youth and experience that was possibly lacking last year.

"Our new players will fill the gaps and we will also look to blood some of our younger players who have been rising through the ranks.

"Phil Hammond and Steve Holmes captain the thirds and Seagulls respectively, both of whom will have merit table games to give a more competitive edge to their fixtures.

"One of the most exciting developments is the formation of our under-19 side, bridging the gap between colts and senior rugby, from whom we expect to see plenty of emerging young talent."

Malvern's season begins on August 28 with a Powergen Cup preliminary round match.

Midlands Two (West) action starts on September 4 with an away fixture against newly-promoted Leamington, followed by a tough test at home with the visit of Old Coventrians on September 11.