Rugby Club Issue 64 | Page 4

Walsall FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG Walsall Rugby FOOTBALL CLUB W alsall RFC suffered the disappointment of relegation at first team level last season but has wasted no time picking itself up ahead of the new campaign. With a new coach in place and a fantastic youth section in place there is plenty of cause for optimism at the club. Arnie Evans, former Captain and Director of Rugby at the club now works as their Press Officer and Fixture Secretary. He took the time to speak to Rugby Club Magazine ahead of the new campaign, saying, “I arrived at the club in 1971, when I started my teaching career in Walsall. I was one of many students who did their training at the recently built, West Midlands College of Education. “Several students stayed in the area and enjoyed the rugby and the social life at the club. I know my website and press reports are well read. But I am always conscious that I should show an impartial view of the team’s and the opposition’s performance. “The mood at the end of last season was one of general disappointment, as the first team was relegated at the end of the campaign and will now be playing at level 7. The lowest in the club’s history. 4 Issue 64 But otherwise, playing and social activities are well supported. “The seniors were competitive at their various levels last season while the Junior rugby section has been well supported and has achieved a great deal of success. “I am also chairman of the clubs rugby development group and I noticed the close season only lasted a month! Conditioning training started in the first week of June with over 40 senior and youth players in attendance. “Fortunately the club’s youth section is well managed, with every team having a group of managers, coaches and supporting adults. The local grammar school still has a strong