Continuity was the theme as Avon Rugby Club held their annual meeting ahead of their centenary season.
Avon RFC’s chairman Ian Monochino-Ayres, left, and club captain Kane Book are two of the stalwarts who are continuing in their roles for 2025-26 | Photo © Avon RFC
The primary official positions of president, chairman and secretary/treasurer have been filled once again by Tony Mutlow, Ian Monochino-Ayres and Paul Kirby, who have been in the roles for 16, 10 and 14 years respectively.
Clive Book continues as director of rugby – a job he has held for 29 years.
Kai Harwood is again head coach, having performed the duties for a decade, and Kane Book continues as club captain after seven years in the role. Ben Hurd is carrying on as skipper of the 2nd XV Elite, having served in this position for five years.
Damien Sawyer, Rob Fitch and Chaz Meddick form a set of experienced assistant coaches.
The operation of the clubhouse will be looked after by Sarah Goodwin-Drew (bookings), Liam Ridley (staffing), Ollie Flight (orders) and Chris Mutlow (general management). The latter is continuing as fixtures secretary and grounds/buildings manager.
Julian Thresher takes up a new role by leading on sponsorship. And Iain Parris is in charge of publicity on social media.
Pre-season training is now well under way at Avon’s Hicks Field ground off London Road, Batheaston.
Sessions take place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, starting at 7pm.
Avon, who finished in third place in Counties 2 Tribute Ale Somerset last term, welcome new players seeking to enjoy league rugby in a friendly environment.
And players interested in social rugby are encouraged to sample the Avon hospitality, with the 2nd XV set to hold a series of friendly matches across the season.
The minis and juniors will resume their sessions on Sunday mornings from early September.
Youngsters and their parents will be made welcome at Hicks Field. The children will be guided by qualified coaches, and there will be coffee and bacon rolls afterwards in the clubhouse.
