Message from Richie Williams, DOR
I hope that this message finds everyone well as some degree of normality slowly returns to our lives. With more guidance being released from the RFU around ‘Return to Play’, I thought that this would be a good opportunity to introduce some of our new signings ahead of the season.
It’s important to note that squad cohesion was one of the cornerstones to some of our successes last season, and in particular during our 6- game winning streak before and after Christmas. This is something that we are acutely aware of and has helped us shape our recruitment for next season. Notwithstanding, it is always important to add quality and reinvigorate the playing group. Recruitment has proved far easier than this time last year, as our product and environment are certainly more attractive to new players.
All of the new signings are bringing a new dimension to our group and are really good ‘cultural fits’ for what we are trying to establish on and off the field. They will add genuine competition in areas where we were thin on the ground last season.
Our first signing is back 3 player Joe Green, who we sign from Bedford Blues. Joe is a familiar face to all at Cambridge as we have had him on loan for the past 3 seasons. He is an intelligent rugby player and has an impressive try scoring rate. He also has the ability to play across the back line. Culturally, he is a perfect fit.
Our next new signing is another back 3 player; Jonty Rawcliffe. Jonty signs from Sale FC and is moving back to the area for work reasons. Jonty is a player that has stood out to me every time we have played Sale FC. He is well over 6ft and has an excellent aerial and kicking game. His profile is something that will allow us to explore our wide attacking game. Jonty comments ‘Having taken the opportunity to move closer to home, Cambridge was the obvious choice of club to join. Having spoken to Richie, he told me what the club is about, how they work and set out his vision for the club moving forwards which is really exciting. I can’t wait to meet the boys and get started.’
The final signing this week is Australian midfielder Marc Koteczky who we sign from Old Elthamians. Marc has a proven playing record having represented Gordon in the Shute Shield and Plymouth Albion when they played in the Championship. Marc comments ‘After playing a few seasons already in the UK, I knew the club had a good reputation and a good culture. Personally I want to play for a club where I can improve as a player and enjoy myself. I know Cambridge have a really exciting vision and I want to be part of that. We’ve heard that Cambridge is a beautiful area to live so as a family we’re really excited.’
I have previously coached Marc during his time heading up the Hungarian National 7’s and XV’s team and is looking forward to welcoming him to Cambridge.
