We had been suffering a bit of a trying time in December/January of 2013/14 with respected coach Brett Davey going through his own personal difficulties when his late mother was gravely ill. Brett tendered his resignation and, with Lee Davies, Ben arrived to take up the coaching duties. Nothing could be done to save us from the drop but the Club had seen enough of what Lee and Ben could do to retain the faith and, perhaps more importantly, there was something in the air at Beddau that convinced two young coaches of the potential waiting to be developed.

Bouncing back from a relegation isn`t easy but the job was done in some style. It came as no surprise that overtures would be made and though Lee Davies gave us another season, when we finished in a very creditable 6th place in the Championship he was off to Ebbw Vale.

How would Ben fare without Lee? The answer is very well, thank you.

They are now becoming reunited for Ben, in turn, is leaving for the greener pastures of Ebbw Vale. We owe him a debt of gratitude.

There is nothing of the showman about Ben but he works assiduously and with great attention to detail. Players and fellow coaches come to trust and rely on him. Our loss is certainly Ebbw Vale`s gain and we wish Ben the very best in this step on what will be a developing career.

If all good things come to an end so other doors are opened and the Club has lost no time in tying up some coaching appointments with the welcome news that Tom Slater will join as Player/Coach and that Bradley Davies, who has worked with the forwards in some specific areas already has again committed to giving Beddau as much of his services as time will allow.

The well-known, and highly regarded fitness coach Steve “Ritters” Richards is also on board and, of course, head coach Ross Johnston will be looking to build on a successful opening season.