Weston-super-Mare RFC is delighted to announce that Gary Carpenter, who can play across the front row, has been appointed Club Captain for the 2024-25 season in the Regional 2 Severn league.

Dave Burge, Weston-super-Mare’s head coach, said: "Gary is a much-loved member of the squad and has raised his standards recently, encouraging others to follow. Gary will set the tone, on and off the field, for how we want to move forward this coming season."

Carpenter joined the Weston-super-Mare club from Taunton Titans and debuted for the Seasiders off the bench for the second half of the 21-13 South Premier League victory at Brixham in September 2021.

"I truly feel privileged and honoured to be asked to captain Weston-super-Mare RFC this coming season and add my name to the illustrious list of great captains that have served before me, so thank you," said Carpenter.

"Taking over from our previous captain Suggy (Tom Sugg) will be a big task, but one I meet with open arms. I look forward to adding my stamp to his legacy.”

Carpenter, 33, won the 'Player of the Year' and 'Players' Player of the Year' in his first full season and has made 55 first-team appearances, scoring 12 tries in the process.

"When I first joined Weston-super-Mare, I was made to feel right at home from day one, and I have grown to love being a member of such a great Club with an impressive history. For me, therefore, to be asked to captain the Club was something I had to think over before giving my answer.

“I didn't just want to agree and not be the right person for the job. I wanted to make sure I was the right person to make the Club proud and lead us forward in the right direction to which I plan on doing."

Weston-super-Mare and Weston United (2ndXV) have been relegated to Regional 2 Severn and Counties 3 Somerset South, respectively, while Weston Athletic (3rdXV) have retained their place in Counties 4 Somerset South.

"Last season wasn't our finest, to say the least," added Carpenter. "However, in parts, we showed what great rugby we can play, especially towards the latter stages. In truth, we were still some distance from what I believe we are capable of.

"This coming season, I look forward to working closely with Burgey, (Dan) Lomax and everyone else at the Club to drive the great bunch of players we have towards what I feel will be a fantastic year.

"I see no reason why we can't finish this season back where we should be. It will take a lot of hard work and commitment from all involved to make it a successful year, but I do not doubt that when called upon, everyone will do what is asked of them and more to make this a reality.

"We have a great group of players, staff and volunteers that make Weston RFC the amazing club both on and off the field, and I'm looking forward to having a good pre-season and getting back in action with the rest of the lads on the field."

Weston-super-Mare will start their Regional 2 Tribute Severn campaign facing Old Centralians on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at the Saintbridge Sports Centre while Weston United host Castle Cary and Weston Athletic welcome relegated Burnham-on-Sea 2ndXV.

Burge's senior management includes Dan Lomax as 1XV coach and Simon Hudson as United coach. Chris Heath and Ann Davies continue their roles as 1XV and United Managers, respectively, while Clayton Dorrington takes over as the Athletic Manager.

Milan Petrovic remains the Club's Strength & Conditioning coach and Sports Therapist with Robert Harris, the Grounds and Facilities Director.

Weston-super-Mare's senior players will return to pre-season training on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at 6.45 pm. If you are interested in joining or want to know more, please get in touch with Dave Burge via 07759 239 027 or headcoach@westonrugby.co.uk

Carpenter concluded: "Those involved at the Club have been working hard to recruit some great new players, retain the fantastic lads we already have and give the clubhouse a nice makeover.

“Let's ensure we get down the Club for the start of pre-season training on June 25 and begin building for this coming season. See you all there!"

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