Director of Rugby, Sean Carty, used the occasion of the Players Presentation Evening to announce the new coaching team for the forthcoming season. Introducing new player/Head Coach Alex Crockett, forwards coach Dave Butcher and assistant coach Lee Denham as his dream team Sean outlined his vision for the future with the ultimate aim of a return to National league 1.
New Head coach Alex Crockett began his professional career with Bath rugby club in 2001, representing them 129 times as well as gaining selection for the England Saxons, before moving onto Bristol, Worcester Warriors and Newcastle Falcons. He has gained his Level 3 coaching qualifications and is looking forward to joining up with the Ionians squad for pre –season training.
Dave Butcher is an experienced coach with the Scottish RFU and is already a familiar face to the 1st team players. Dave ran a number of training stints in the latter half of last season and introduced a number of innovative ideas to the sessions.
Lee Denham joined Ionians last season after a playing career which started in the Army, playing for the Combined Services, before embarking on a professional career with Sale, Leeds Tykes and Worcester Warriors. Lee currently coaches the Ronin 7s team and will concentrate on contact skills with the Ionians squad next season.