Teams 
Pre-season at Bideford RFC has been one of the most varied and enriching in recent memory. Last year’s head coach, Kevin Booth, has been joined by three former club captains Andy Mackenzie-Shapland, Andy Loosemore and Tim Priest, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of what it truly means to represent Bideford. Their leadership has been instrumental in setting the tone for a culture-driven and competitive start to the year. But the real highlight has been the introduction of several guest coaches from across the sporting world, each offering fresh perspectives and top-level expertise to broaden the players’ development and mindset.
First up was Great Britain gymnast Adam Tobin, who led a dynamic warm-up session focused on mobility and flexibility. Adam introduced the squad to a range of stretches targeting muscles most players didn’t even know they had! It was a valuable and eye-opening session, helping players personalise their pre-match routines and improve overall movement quality.
Next, former Premier League footballer George Friend brought a new dimension to conditioning work. Using resistance bands, George delivered exercises aimed at strengthening joints and muscles, with a strong emphasis on injury prevention and recovery. His session provided the squad with practical tools to enhance their individual physical development.
Then came Gloucester and England U21 international Jack Cotgreave, who returned to his roots to support the club that played a role in his early rugby journey. Jack led a high-intensity handling session for the senior squad, focusing on accuracy, pace and decision-making under pressure. He also generously gave his time to the U16s, delivering a brilliant session that reinforced the importance of the club’s junior pathway.
Finally, former Exeter Chiefs and Scotland international prop Moray Low rounded off the guest coaching series with a dedicated scrummaging clinic. A long-time friend of the club, Moray worked with forwards from the U16s, seniors and the ladies’ squad, offering expert advice on positioning, technique and core strength development. His insights and practical drills were hugely well received and are sure to have a lasting impact.
Our thanks go out to all the coaches that have been on hand to help out.
