First up, we're delighted to confirm a number of key appointments within the club.
Taking on the role of Second Team Manager is Clint van Kuijeren and Andy Smith completes the new line up for our 2’s as he takes up the Player-Coach role. Their passion for the club, leadership and experience make the duo the perfect people to help drive our second team forward this season.

Meanwhile, our Colts coaching team sees a new addition with none other than Joe Sanders joining Harry ‘H’ Hopwood. Our first-team hooker and last season's league-leading try scorer, Joe knows exactly what it takes to succeed and will be a fantastic influence on the next generation of Anselmians players.

We’re hopeful of adding another experienced coach to an already outstanding coaching group. If everything falls into place, he’ll bring a huge amount of knowledge, experience and fresh ideas to a side that continues to improve year after year.

We're also thrilled to officially welcome Amanda Smale as Head Physio. Amanda has already transformed our physiotherapy department with her professionalism, enthusiasm and expertise. More importantly, she's become incredibly popular throughout the squad, earning the respect of players and coaches alike.

While these appointments are exciting, the hard work has already begun. The squad has been back in training for three weeks and there has been no easing into it. Fitness has been the number one priority, with the intensity turned up several notches as preparations continue for what promises to be another demanding season. Two pre-season fixtures are in the calendar with games against Lymm and Newport Salop, a training session game with Chester and negotiations on-going with Caldy to find a date for a run out with our Champ neighbours.

Saints players, Harrison Crowe, Oscar Crowe, Ollie Dodd and Joe Sanders also found the time and energy to represent the North West select side vs the North East. The game was lost but excellent performances were had by our boys – representing our club with aplomb. Lewis Kincart was also selected but unable to play due to injury – all at the club wish him well with his on-going recovery.

The effort, commitment and standards being set across the whole squad have been outstanding, and there’s a real sense that everyone is pulling in the same direction.

We are also continuing to improve the infrastructure of the club and special mention must go to Dave Buttery and Barrie ‘The Apprentice’ Pilgrim for creating the new changing room cubicles – thank you gents.

And that’s not quite the end of the news…
But we’ll keep you guessing for now…

One thing is certain: there’s a real buzz around the club, pre-season is in full swing, and everyone at Anselmians is working tirelessly to make this a season to remember.
#comeonannies