Coventry Rugby Club's Director Of Rugby, Rowland Winter has made four lead appointments to a new-look management team.
Rob Norman, who has been the club’s strength and conditioning coach since 2009, is appointed to an expanded position of Head of Performance where he will work alongside Hannah Walker, who takes on the role of Head Physiotherapist.
Walker is currently lead physiotherapist for GB Wheelchair Rugby and, former head physio at Sutton Coldfield RFC, also works with the Great Britain boxing squad at training camps and tournaments.
“Both Rob and Hannah’s appointments are crucial to our progression towards a professional environment,” said Winter. “They offer plenty of experience and expertise that will enable us to enhance our performance and medical provision.
“These are two areas where we are significantly behind those at the top of our division. The new performance and medical structure will help us begin the process of catching up.”
In addition, Tony Gulliver returns to the club as Team Manager. The second row forward played 381 games for Coventry in a long and enduring career and has previously held a similar role at the club.
“Tony’s role is more than a team manager, he will help the new players to become engaged with the proud history and tradition of the club,” said Winter. “He brings knowledge and experience of the role and of the club, and this is vital.”
Winter has also created a role for John Wilkinson, former rugby writer at the Coventry Telegraph, to become Media Manager.
“I am aware that communication between the rugby operations and our loyal supporters has been poor,” he said.
“The appointment of John along with a new, structured media schedule will now address this issue. I have also had a number of positive discussions with supporters about relaunching the Coventry Supporters Club. We hope to have more details shortly.”
All four lead staff will now make appointments to their own support team, with a number of posts advertised shortly.