Cinderford RFC, and Director of Rugby Paul Morris, can confirm that 21 existing players have agreed and signed new contracts for the 2019-20 season.
The players confirmed as contracted for 2019-20 are: George Porter (prop), Joe Smart (prop), James Elliot (prop), Tim Brockett (prop), Nathan Taylor (hooker), Sam Baker (hooker), Ben So’oialo Chan (second row), Dale Lemon (second row), George Evans (back five), Jack Shields (back five), Matt Lane (back row), Harry Hone (back row), Matt Bennett (back row), Lewis Beer (back row), Jimmy Williams (scrum half), Alex Frame (scrum half / full back), Liam Hemming (fly half), Jack Hayes (centre), George Boulton (centre), Terence Babarinsa (centre) and Sam Smith (wing).
Morris said: “These players played a major part in our success last season and, for some, the seasons before that too. Finishing eighth, last season, above some big clubs with bigger playing budgets, was a considerable achievement. Most of these players signed before the end of last season and continuity is important. There is still growth in this group.. I am still in negotiation with several more of our existing players. We will also have six or seven potential additions to our squad, other than those already announced, training with us when we commence pre-season training on July 2nd at St Peter’s School, Gloucester. They need to have a look at us and how we do things and vice versa. If they join it’s important they know what the demands and expectations of playing for Cinderford RFC are. We also need to ensure that the depth of our squad, in all areas, is sufficient to meet the huge demands of National One rugby.”
Morris is able to confirm that Will Keenan (flanker) and Tom Bozzard (hooker) have retired although their playing registrations will be retained. “Both have been wonderful servants for the club. They are good players and good blokes. They will be missed on and off the field.”
Wing Reuben Norville is moving to London to study at Brunel University and will link up with Ealing Trailfinders. Scrum half Toby Dabell has completed his studies at Hartpury and will return home to London and link up with Richmond. “Reuben and Toby leave with our best wishes. Both have have given much in their respective times at Cinderford. Reuben has played 74 games in the last three seasons and a return of 32 tries is indicative of his quality. Toby has only really played since Xmas but his impact has been noticeable. Both are good signings for their new clubs as they were for us.” Flanker Daniel Broady will not be returning to Cinderford either next season. “He wants guaranteed first team rugby and he doesn’t believe he can achieve this at Cinderford with the competition that exists. He’s a good player and we wish him well wherever he ends up playing next season.”