SIDMOUTH Rugby Club have started training in preparation for the new season and coach Andy Matchett was impressed with a turn out of 35 senior players and 20 Colts for the first session.

SIDMOUTH Rugby Club have started training in preparation for the new season and coach Andy Matchett was impressed with a turn out of 35 senior players and 20 Colts for the first session. A few new faces were evident and it is clear that there is a determination to make the first season in South West Two West a successful one. The Chiefs start their League campaign at Torquay on September 13. In preparation they have a tough programme of warm- up matches against a Plymouth Albion XV, Exmouth, Crediton and Launceston 2nds. New players of any ability will receive a warm welcome. Training takes place at Sidford playing fields every Tuesday and Thursday starting at 7pm. For information contact Rugby Manager Tug Wilson on (01404) 813316 or 07866 134411. At a meeting of players and committee members, the following captains were elected for the 2008-9 season: 1st XV captain - Steve Trim 1st XV vice captain - Dan Trim 2nd XV captain - Giles Dixon 2nd XV vice captain - Matt Vickary 3rd XV captain - Hakim Bakrim 3rd XV vice captain - Ian West Former 1st team stalwart Keith Upham has been appointed as 2nd XV manager. Vince Bastyan will look after the Third XV.