New Coaching line up for new season

DIRECTOR of rugby of newly-promoted St Ives, Joff Rowe, has announced his new coaching line-up for the 2018-19 season.

Paul Thirlby, who was player/joint head coach with Rob Elloway, stood down from his role at the end of last season after winning the Tribute Western Counties West title to spend more time with his family.

L-R: Steve Kenward, Rob Elloway, Chris Fuca

Elloway has now been named as senior coach of the South West One West division side, with last season’s captain Steve Kenward appointed as backs coach.

There are two newcomers to the club, with Chris Fuca taking over as forwards coach and Cornish Rebels rugby league coach Mike Abbott as defence coach.

Former Redruth and Cornwall back rower Fuca hung up his boots at the end of last season, and had a special farewell match at the Recreation Ground in May.

He made more than 300 appearances for Redruth and was part of the Cornwall team that reached five successive County Championship finals between 2013 and 2017.

He also played a handful of games for Championship side Cornish Pirates in the 2017-18 campaign to help them through an injury crisis and will bring a vast amount of playing experience to the coaching position.

Abbott’s appointment follows a review of last season by the Hakes, who believe they need to develop their defensive work.

Abbott said: “I coached rugby league at Leigh Miners Rangers and also Haydock Warriors – both respected clubs in amateur rugby league. I also coached for a short time at Widnes Vikings with their under 14s/15s.

“I moved to Cornwall with my wife and kids in January 2016, and I was lucky enough to be offered the Rebels’ coaching job after approaching John Beach over helping out at the club.

“In my first season we won the league and cup and backed this up the following year by winning the Tamar Shield, as well as impressive victories over the RAF and Navy rugby league sides.

“I was genuinely flattered to be considered for St Ives and even more so that players from the Rebels who are at St Ives had recommended me.

“I could not say no and can’t wait to get started.”