News

28/07/2009 : Getting ready for the new season at Coleraine

COLERAINE Rugby Club has appointed Steven Dickey as captain and he can't wait for the new season to get under way.

The 24-year-old back row specialist had a great season last year, ending it with games for Ulster A and Junior Ulster.

Steven said: “We ended last season well and then I got games with Ulster. Now I am to captain Coleraine and that just caps it all.

“I am really honoured to have the job and I am looking forward to a very successful season. There is a real buzz in the squad.

“We are looking forward to improving on last year’s results and training will be important for everyone in the squad. Everybody will have to earn their place and I want to see people playing for the pride of wearing a Coleraine jersey.”

Vice-captain is Aaron Rankin. The flying centre is just back from a trip to Australia and he is ready for action.

He said: “We were fourth in the league last season and we want to improve on that. We have more depth in the squad this year and we are also looking forward to a good run in the All-Ireland Cup as well as the Junior Cup and the Town’s Cup.”

The club has now provided a gym in the new changing room complex and many playing members have been putting it to good use as they prepare themselves for the season ahead.

Coach Richard Kernohan remains at the helm this season, assisted by Norman Blair. He emphasises the need for training and is looking for a strong commitment to pre-season training.

Richard said: “This season we are already further ahead of last year and we have a good core in the squad.

“We lacked a bit in fitness at times last year but already many of the players have shown self-motivation and are already in good shape. There will be a strict training policy this year and it will directly impact on team selection.

“Training has already started on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and we need to see a good turn out every night. We want to see as many out as possible, regular team members, new players and returning players.

“Everyone will be welcome and there are places on all the teams up for grabs.”

Looking forward Richard said: “The Junior League is going to be closer than ever this season. City of Derry is still in there, as are Armagh and Clogher Valley. Bangor are back into the league and they will be a force to be reckoned with.

“Limavady and Ballymoney will also be big challenges, as will Cooke and Dromore who have recruited heavily for the new season.

“Having said that there is a great feeling in the Coleraine squad this summer and everyone is fired up for the season ahead. We will take each game a week at a time and we’ll make sure we get the results we want.”

The first action for the new season will see Ballyclare coming to town and friendly matches for Firsts, Seconds and Under 19 levels are in prospect on August 22 at 2.30pm. It will be a great opportunity for both clubs to get a look at their players in action before the competitive season starts.