We are delighted to announce 6 new additions to the 1XV squad for Season 2012/2013. I’m fibbing a bit there, because there are actually just 3 new signings combined with the very welcome return of three old friends.
It’s always difficult joining a new club so please make a special effort to introduce yourself to the lads, buy them a beer and make them feel at home. In strictly alphabetical order:
Tom Austin
Tom is a 22 year old back-row player who having just graduated from University of Wales in Cardiff (UWIC) has moved into the area and now lives in Winterley. To most recently played for Llanishent RFU in Cardiff and comes with glowing references from his coaches there, who describe him as “An outstanding player” and an “absolute credit” to the team as they gained promotion to Level 3 of the Welsh Rugby Union.
Marcus Broad
Marcus is another 22 year old but plays centre and has a glowing rugby CV. Marcus played senior colts at Chester, Sale Sharks Academy, North of England and most recently as a “Strong Running” centre at National One club Blaydon RFC. Tom has recently graduated as in Law at Newcastle and now lives in Kidsgrove.
Andy Funnel
Andy is the ‘Old Man’ of the newcomers at 24. Andy has come directly from Broadstreet RFC (also National 3 Midlands) where he played wing and occasionally Full Back. Whilst at University in Sheffield Andy played for Sheffield Tigers. Andy’s skills, experience and knowledge of National 3 Midlands will be of immense value to Sandbach. Andy currently lives in Congleton and works as an Account Manager at one of the world’s largest Metal Stockholders.
Josh Longson
After a year ‘Learning to become a student’ in Leeds, Josh has decided to nail his flag to the Sandbach mast and will regularly travel back to Sandbach for training and games. As you recall Josh is a dynamic Open-side flanker with pace to burn and has previously trialled at Sharks and Leicester before putting his education first
George Oakey
21 year old George has returned from his 12 month sojourn at Ruislip RFC where he was a regular member of the 1st Team squad. George’s versatility and kicking will give us extra options at 9, 10 and 15.
Ross Sutherland
Ross rejoins Sandbach from his travels North of the Border, where he played Open-side for Stewart’s Melville and most recently Murrayfield Wanderers. Ross plays a very ‘canny’ but physical game and will be one of a number of excellent back-row players that will give Simon Verbickas a “Good type of headache”
Overall then a pretty good result on paper. We have lost Irishman Davy Campbell who has moved to London and signed for Barnes Rugby Club, but on the upside we have gained 6 tremendous players who will give options and cover across the pitch.