Cinderford RFC are delighted to announce the signings of former players, George Evans and Will Keenan.
Evans, 28, is a former captain and the youngest member of the prestigious Cinderford RFC “200” club. He was captain of Cinderford RFC during the 2013-14 season and went on to make his 200th 1st XV appearance playing against Rosslyn Park on February 7th 2015. George’s late father, John, was also a former, highly regarded player of the club. After the birth of his daughter in October 2015, he joined Hartpury RFC, where he became a valued member of their squad, as they finished runners-up in their National One campaign. Despite Cinderford’s relegation to National Two South, Director of Rugby, Paul Morris, has been able to persuade George to rejoin the club.
“George’s return is important to everyone involved at the club. He is widely respected as a player and a person by the management, coaching staff, players and supporters,” stated Morris. “Cinderford is where we think he belongs and we are excited that he will be part of the club’s new era. There is no doubt that he will have benefited from the experience of being in a different environment. George’s desire to play for the club, quiet leadership, authority and unquestioned ability made it an opportunity too good to miss.”
Keenan, 29, was born and raised on the Isle of Man. He first came to Cinderford RFC in the summer of 2013 after playing for Preston Grasshoppers RFC. Will fought his way into a regular 1st XV spot as the side narrowly avoided relegation at the end of the 2013-14 season. He then spent some time abroad, developing his game in New Zealand. On returning to the UK, after a trial with Moseley, Will was offered a contract for the 2015-16 season and made numerous appearances for the Birmingham club. His stand out individual performance was against Bristol in a narrow 24-22 defeat at Ashton Gate in April 2016.
Morris commented, “Will is an effervescent character and a real nuisance to play against. When we knew he was available, we felt it was the right thing to do to bring him back to the club. Will has a great attitude, a hunger for work and embraces the physicality of the game. It is these characteristics that made him a great fit for us.”
“As for all members of the squad, competition for places is going to be extremely high. George and Will are under no illusions of the challenge in front of them and we are confident that it will bring the best out of them. Both players return having been involved in a professional environment and this will undoubtedly increase the standard of an already highly competitive squad.”