New coaching team in place at Trafford MV Rugby Club

By Wilf Dooley

With a tough season left far behind, Trafford MV Rugby Club in Sale has a season of new challenges ahead. July brings the start of pre-season training as the senior playing squad begins their preparations for the 2025/26 season on Tuesday, July 8th.

Big changes are in hand as a new coaching regime takes control of the playing side.

The retirement of Head Coach Brian Collier, following three successful seasons during which the team won promotion and retained their place at level 7, has created opportunities for new faces to make their impact. The Club will be led into action by a trio of experienced players looking to make their mark in the coaching arena.

Coming back into Trafford’s environment is Aaron Booth, returning after two seasons as player coach at Tyldesley, who will be influencing the side as Offensive/Attacking Coach. Long-time 1st XV player Andy Quigley returns from retirement to stabilize the team as Defensive Coach.

To get the team in good physical shape, Jamie Kingdon has been appointed as Strength and Conditioning Coach. The playing experience of this trio will add a new dimension to the makeup of the team as the whole squad looks forward to the first training session.

On the field, there will also be changes on the playing front with the retirement from 1st XV Rugby of former captain Pat Eccles and try-scoring hooker Craig Collier. With centre Joe Owen now retired, it is the time for the club’s young players to grasp their chance.

There is also the opportunity for new local talent to come into the club and compete for a place in the Trafford MV Rugby squad. If you are looking for a change of club or the opportunity to shine at 1st XV level in local rugby, then get in touch with Jamie Butler at mensrugby@tmvrfcc.co.uk.

Trafford MV Women’s Rugby will also have exciting news to announce with the arrival of the Women’s Rugby World Cup tournament in Manchester in August. The club is keen for young girls and women to get involved in playing rugby over the summer months while the weather is good.

Female players of all ages and abilities, including total novices, are invited to get in touch and find out what the game is all about. We have one of the best setups for female rugby in the Manchester area, and new players are very welcome to join in the fun of playing. Contact wilfdooley@virginmedia.com for any info.

Photo – Trafford MV Men’s Coaching team Jamie Kingdon, Aaron Booth, and Andy Quigley