Armoy appoint new coach

The club announced on Monday they have appointed Ian Caldwell to the position.

Ian was a stalwart of the Ballymena 1st XV for 10 years and was club captain in season 2008-2009 but unfortunately had to retire from top level rugby at the end of that season due to injury. While he was playing at this level he also played for Ulster A and has trained with many international players. He had a short spell as a coach at Colraine and coached Ballymena 2nd XV.

Armoy captain Gareth Christie said: “With the level of experience that Ian has he has no doubt that he will be able to help the club attain a higher standard of Rugby which will in future elevate the club to a higher league and will perhaps encourage old and new players to come to Armoy.”

There is a good feeling at the club at present with plans to start youth rugby once more and the possibility of a 2nd XV being resurrected. The old 2nd XV pitch has been cleared of weeds and a lot of effort has been put in over recent weeks by Gareth Christie and Francis Douthart in keeping the grass cut and pitches in excellent order.

The club also acquired a set of posts which were donated by Randalstown Rugby Club many thanks to Dr John Curry and Derek Waddell at Randalstown for this generous and much appreciated donation. These posts will be put up on the 2nd XV pitch which will be used as a training pitch also.

Once again Armoy RFC would appeal to anyone who would like to play rugby to come and join. Training started up again on Monday 18 July and will also be on Wednesday nights until the start of the season. The new coach will not however be with them until later in July due to other commitments.