Former Premiership player Nick Porter to coach New Milton Rugby Club
NEW Milton Rugby Club has appointed a former London Wasps player as its new head coach.
Nick Porter came up through the Saracens Academy and then moved to Premiership side Wasps, where he played as a loose-head prop, writes Ed Baker.
Recently, he moved to the New Forest area and joined New Milton RFC, where he began coaching age-group teams.
He now has a taste for coaching and wants to bring his professional experience to the new role.
Training at Normans Way, Ashley, is underway on Tuesday evenings, with players arriving at 6.30pm for a 7pm start.
Porter replaces Ben Wainwright, whose work commitments prevented him from building on his successes, which included a promotion to the Counties Hampshire One division.
New Milton chairman Andy Frend said: “Nick brings experience from a professional background, and the players already know him and are excited for the new season.
“There has been a lot going on behind the scenes with new player incentives and sponsorship deals being worked on.
“We are looking for new players for all our senior men’s teams, and everyone is welcome to come to training.
“I want to pay tribute to Ben Wainwright; we’ve been extremely fortunate to have him as head coach, and he leaves a genuine legacy that we all intend to build on.”
Nick Porter said: “I really love the club – I’ve never been at a junior club before and it has a fun, friendly, and family atmosphere.
“There is a great set-up, and we have an exciting plan for the year. I want to play in a competitive style and improve skills and players’ understanding of the game.
“We have some good packages for players, and I’m looking forward to a really enjoyable season.”
New Milton Rugby Club has teams from mini-age groups to colts, girls’ and women’s rugby, and a booming social side.
Anyone interested in playing should contact Lyndon Booker on 07545 756119.