We caught up with Director of Rugby Liam Lester to reflect on last season, discuss the club’s ambitions and look ahead to an exciting year for senior men’s rugby.

How are you feeling ahead of the new season?

“There is a real positivity across the club heading into the new season,” Liam said.

“Our league form over the last couple of seasons hasn’t been where we wanted it to be and we’re honest enough to acknowledge that. But if you look at the second half of last season, the improvement was clear to see. We finished the campaign strongly and that’s given everyone real belief.”

That progress was rewarded in memorable fashion with victory in the Intermediate Cup.

“It couldn’t really have ended any better than winning the Intermediate Cup. That night at Darlington was really special for everyone.

“The whole group deserve enormous credit. They showed exactly what they’re capable of, not just in terms of rugby ability but in the character, togetherness and team spirit they displayed. That’s the standard we’ve set ourselves and now it’s about building on it.

“If we can carry that momentum, confidence and consistency into this season, then I’m convinced our league form will improve significantly.”

Pre-season is starting a little later than usual this year. Can you explain why?

“Yes, so our season finished much later than normal because of the cup run, with the Intermediate Cup Final taking us into the middle of May. On top of that, we had players representing the club on tour in Canada and others involved in representative rugby right through until the end of the month.

“With the new season also starting a week later than usual, we felt it was important to give everyone a proper break after a long campaign. The aim is for the squad to come back refreshed, re-energised and ready to hit the ground running.

“When we return, every session will count. We want everyone back ready to work hard so we’re in the best possible shape for the season ahead.”

What is the long-term vision for the club?

Liam is clear that the club has big ambitions, but they’re built on patience, hard work and earning success.

“We want to establish our 1st XV at a higher level over the next five years.

“We’re ambitious, but we’re also realistic. That status has to be earned through performances, consistency and hard work.

“We believe our facilities, infrastructure and future plans are befitting of regional rugby, but first and foremost we have to make sure the rugby on the pitch matches those ambitions.

“We’ve got a talented and experienced group of players, a committed coaching team and, importantly, a fantastic junior pathway producing young talent year after year.

“We’re always looking to strengthen the squad because competition for places drives standards, but we’ve got enormous belief in the players we’ve already got.”

Although league results have been mixed, Liam believes the group’s success in knockout rugby shows its potential.

“It’s easy to focus purely on league positions, but we’ve still achieved plenty over the last few seasons. We’ve won two County Cups in the last three years and reached three finals during that time. That tells you this group knows how to compete and win big games.”

Why is this season such an important one for the 2nd XV?

This season marks an important milestone for the club’s 2nd XV as they enter the RFU league pyramid for the first time.

“It’s a really exciting development.

“Playing in a structured, competitive league is a huge step forward. It gives players regular fixtures, more consistency throughout the season and provides an excellent environment for development.

“We’re also delighted to have appointed David Carson-White and Dean Ryan as team managers. Between them they bring a huge amount of experience both on and off the field and, most importantly, they share exactly the same values and vision for where we want to take the team.”

What does the 3rd XV bring to the club?

The continued success of the 3rd XV remains one of the club’s proudest achievements.

“To be able to consistently field three senior men’s teams every weekend is something everyone at the club should be proud of.

“The 3rd XV has brought so much over the last three seasons. It’s allowed us to offer more game time, helped develop younger players, welcomed people who are new to rugby and even extended the playing careers of some who perhaps thought they’d finished.

“It also provides a fantastic social rugby environment for those who simply love playing the game and everything that comes with it.

“Whatever your level, we genuinely have a team for everyone.”

The club is also planning to expand its veterans programme this season.

“We’re looking forward to organising more Vets fixtures as well. That’s another important part of what we offer as a community club.”

What does success look like for Hartlepool Rugby Club?

For Liam, success is about much more than results on a Saturday afternoon.

“We’re ambitious in everything we do.

“That means success on the field, but it also means the experiences we offer our players, whether that’s the fantastic tours we organise, like the recent trip to Canada, or continually improving the environment around the club for players, volunteers and members.

“We’ve been building towards something over the last seven or eight years, but you never really arrive. There’s always another standard to set and another level to reach. If you want to keep moving forward, you’ve always got to keep striving to be better.

“A huge part of that has been creating a pathway for young players, both boys and girls, to come through the club and progress into our senior teams in the future.

“We want to take this club to a level it hasn’t reached before while staying true to the values that have always defined us.

“Our ambition is simple: to be the leading community rugby club, to keep creating great memories, and give people every opportunity to enjoy and succeed in the game.”

Finally, what would you say to anyone thinking about joining Hartlepool Rugby Club this season?

“I’d say there’s a place for you here.

“Whatever your experience or ability, there’s an opportunity here. Whether you’re completely new to the game, returning after some time away or looking to play competitive rugby, we have a team for you and a pathway to help you develop.

“One of the things we’re most proud of is that everyone gets the chance to play. We had players join us last summer who went on to become key members of the squad and even picked up awards at the end of the season.

“We’re a welcoming and inclusive club. If you want to enjoy your rugby, be part of a great group of people and contribute to something that’s bigger than yourself, we’d love to welcome you. Whether you’re pulling on a pair of boots for the first time or looking for a new challenge, there’s a place for you in our squad.”

With preparations now under way, attention turns to the new season as players return to Mayfield Park, looking to build on the progress made over the past year.

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