Coleraine Rugby Football and Cricket Club have a new man at the helm as Kevin Bradley takes on the role of president.
Kevin is a long serving member of the club and played rugby across all the teams for almost 30 years. Since reluctantly giving up on his playing career he has been heavily involved in supporting players and teams in the club, before starting out on the road to the presidency.
Speaking this week Kevin explained some of his hopes and plans for the year
Being a ‘rugby man’ he said: “I am very proud to be President of the Club for the year and I extend my best wishes to all the teams throughout the club.
“I welcome our rugby coach Richard Boyd and his team and I am confident that, with our new captain Andrew Neely, they will guide our rugby teams and build on last year’s good work.
“The Cobras Ladies and the Coleraine Chargers rugby teams are going from strength to strength and we are looking forward to their progress in the season ahead.”
The other sports in the club are also important for Kevin. “I applaud the success of the Cricket teams this season and thank all the players, coaches and supporters for their efforts throughout the year.
“I am also looking forward to following the progress of our Hockey teams and wish them every success for the season to come as they settle into the new facilities on Rugby Avenue.
“The junior and youth sections of all our sports are the future of the club. In all our sports they have continued to grow and succeed and that is a great testament to all work done by the players, coaches, families and supporters.
“We have recently started a table tennis section in the club and it is already an integral part of our range of sports. I will watch with interest the development of this new aspect of the club.”
There is also recognition for all those behind the scenes. Kevin said: “Tribute must be paid to the efforts of the small band of people who work in the background, supporting the working of the club, who carry out their duties with considerable pride and endeavour to make our club, our playing facilities, clubhouse and changing pavilion the envy of many.
“Finally, I want to say a big thank you to all our sponsors for their continuing support. Without your efforts we could not exist.”
As the rugby and hockey seasons get underway and the cricket season draws to a close, Kevin is enthusiastic about the potential for the year. He said: “I am looking forward to a successful year and celebrating the many successes to come.
“I encourage continued support for all our sports, from all our members, throughout the year. I would also invite everyone in the community to come along and show your support – and maybe even get involved in playing.
“Rugby and hockey training is underway for the new season and new members are always welcome. Just call at the club and you will be made very welcome.”
