Lydney RFC announce new Director of Rugby
Lydney RFC are delighted to announce Paul Morris will take over as Director of Rugby at the end of the season from Sam Arnott ready for the 2026/7 campaign writes Roger Pike.
Morris known as ‘Copper’ is currently the backs coach and well respected by the players. Rugby is in the Morris blood, his father John Morris made 491 appearances for Lydney, his grandfather, cousin and uncle (Winston Morris) were all Lydney stalwarts. Morris made his own debut for Lydney at just 16 back in 1987, apart from one season with Gloucester he played all his rugby at Regentsholme until injury ended his career in 1999.
Chairman Duncan Sleeman commented ‘Paul was clearly our top candidate, he is an outstanding coach, and we are delighted he has accepted the position. His 31 years as a teacher combined with his playing experience means he has excellent communication skills and is well respected by all the players and supporters.’
Morris said ‘Firstly a huge thank you to Sam and his enormous contribution in developing the Club over the past seasons. I am really looking forward to the challenge and expanding the magnificent work already done. My priority for next season is to get a competitive squad on the field whilst helping ensure we are sustainable off the field. The Southwest Division is an extraordinarily strong league with no easy games so keeping fortress Regentsholme will be important for a strong challenge. The coaching roles will remain similar to this season with a forward based Coach and one for the backs which will be announced soon.’
Morris is sure to get the full support of everyone at the Club, he is already a great favourite with the Supporters, so we wish him well in the role next season.
