After an awful start to 2021 Brigade have began the healing and the rebuilding process over the last few weeks with announcements of a new captain, vice-captain and coach while training has begun with good numbers and a few new faces.

With the devastating loss of Andrew Arnell in January still raw for all members, Brigade decided to take our time in announcing new roles but we are now pleased to be able to announce the successful candidates.

Chris Corkin becomes the new first team captain. Chris is a veteran of the squad having been with Brigade since 2003. After recovering from a serious knee injury in 2017, Chris has returned to the team over the last 2 seasons and has played some of the best rugby of his career. A calm head on the pitch Chris is seen as an ideal leader to continue the great work of his predecessor. Chris said “it’s a great honour to take over from such a great man and I hope I can carry on the amazing work Arny put in as captain”.

Olly Bulley steps up as vice-captain. Olly was a late comer to rugby but has proved to be a natural, making the 10 jersey his own over the last couple of seasons. A silky player who isn’t afraid to put in a tackle, the committee, supporters and his teammates have been impressed with the improvements he has made to his game. Olly said “I can’t wait to get back playing. Lockdown has been tough on us all and I’m looking forward in supporting Chris and making sure we continue the success we’ve had over the last few seasons”.

Finally, Iain Scott takes up the coaching duties. Having assisted Andrew over the last 3 years Scotty was the natural choice to continue the great work that has seen the club move forward massively over that time. Scotty will continue in his role as marauding prop forward but he has a vast wealth of knowledge of the game and is looking forward to putting the lads through there paces in the coming weeks.

Congratulations to Chris, Olly and Iain. We wish you all the best of luck over the coming season (as and when it starts).

With the easing of lockdown, the lads started training last week with great numbers to both sessions that have took place. It’s been great to see the bulk of the squad that won the Tees Valley Social League returning to action as well as several new faces. We hope to announce some exciting new signings on our Facebook page in the coming weeks. Training will continue every Monday, Thursday and Saturday so keep an eye on the Facebook page for details.

Hopefully we are at the start of a very exciting period for the club, building on the success of the last 3 seasons and doing our much missed friend and inspiration proud.

Keep safe

Jonny.