All change at the top for the Mariners!
As they approach the first match of the 2016 season, the Royal Navy Mariners welcome new members to their team. The over 35s side, crowned Interservices champions in 2015, have a new Assistant Director of Rugby, Cdr Jon Holroyd, and a new head coach, fresh from his success with the Royal Marine team, CSgt Elvet Williams.
Jon, soon to take command of 820 Naval Air Squadron, is a Merlin Mk2 ASW Observer who has seen service across most RN ships, those with flight decks that is! Most of his frontline service has been in the Gulf region, and when not embarked he resided in Cornwall. It was in Cornwall where he played local rugby, Helston initially, before joining Penryn for an undisclosed fee. Much of his service rugby, BRNC, ship, establishment, and Naval Air Command, produced mixed fortunes, but he eventually managed to break in to the RNRU scene when he turned 35. He thoroughly enjoyed five seasons as a player, scrum half and hooker, narrowly losing out to the Army on every occasion.
Jon is exceptionally proud and humbled to be selected as the ADoR for the current Inter-service champions, and believes that, now in the winning habit, that the Mariners can dominate this year's championship and many more to come. RNRU Director of Rugby, Cdr Mark Deller said “We’re delighted that Jon is able to find time to commit to the Mariners and very much look forward to the start of the new 2016 season as they begin work on the defence of their Championship title.”
Follow the Mariners this season as they prepare to defend their title. Click here for full fixtures list.
Article by Lt Cdr Sarah Oakley - Royal Navy Rugby Union - Director of Communication
Image by Alligin Photography / © Lee Crabb