Changes at Southwark Rugby Club are more like the London buses which pass their home ground this season. You wait ages for one, and then three come along at once!

There’s a new coaching team, new state of the art facilities and a new league challenge for the SE1 set-up.

The construction of a brand new all-weather rugby pitch at Burgess Park will allow the club, it hopes, to consign its recent on, and off, the pitch struggles to the past.

The club will also play its first XV matches in Surrey 4 - moving over from the Kent league structure. Second XV (Rebels) remain in the Kent Merit Leagues.

Consultation for the new development started way back in 2013 - but the fantastic floodlit playing surface was well worth the wait.

Club Founder Chris Callaway explains: “The new facilities will begin a new chapter in our club’s history, no more dragging out of mobile lighting units on a muddy winter evening and no more waterlogged pitches. These are quite possibly the best rugby facilities in London.”

In preparation for the new campaign the management team have appointed an exciting new coaching lineup.

Former player Adam Lee re-joins the club as forwards coach, after a playing spell with then-Championship side Richmond RFC.

After his departure from Southwark he moved to the Athletic Ground outfit and developed into a robust Championship flanker. Southwark are now looking for him to pass on his top level experience and develop a competitive edge within the forwards.

Former England Under-18 and Worcester scrum-half, Tom Chapman, has also joined the club as backs coach. Tom is a well respected Level-3 coach who will make an immediate difference to a youthful and enthusiastic backline.

“Having spoken to Chris [Callaway], I was intrigued and excited by the project at Southwark Rugby. As a South London boy born and bred, I know how much untapped potential there is in the area as well as lots of experienced players who move to the area for work.

“I believe the change in league structure. and the new 4G facility. can provide a fresh start for the team having had a tough season last year. I'm looking forward to contributing in whatever way I can to help the group improve and turn their fortunes on the pitch around.”

Southwark will also be in a new league this season having changed from Kent to Surrey. Club Chairman Tunde Adeniji comments: “We are very happy to have Adam and Tom on board. It has been really difficult for us to access high quality coaches in the past. Inspiring coaching is a key element of our plan to recover after a very tough season. We have a great bunch of players who are keen to return to the good times.”

Expectations for the coming season are high. New facilities. New coaching team. New league. New start.

Pre-season training and trials are commencing on Tuesday 18th July at 19.00. Players of any standard are encouraged to attend, and the club will always extend a warm welcome.

Training location – Burgess Park Community Sports Centre, SE5 0JB

For more information call Chris Callaway on 07740419539 or email info@southwarkrugby.co.uk.

www.southwarkrugby.co.uk