A Winning Combination: Experience Meets Passion as Ben Priddey Takes Charge of the U23s

Congratulations to POPT Ben Priddey on his appointment as the new U23s Head Coach for the 2023/ 24 season! Assistant Director of U23 Rugby, Lt Owen Salmon, is thrilled to announce this exciting news. Ben's appointment follows the departure of Lt Cdr Andy Vance, who took on the role of backs coach for the Senior XV team last season.

Ben's extensive experience and impressive career make him an exceptional choice for this position. Having earned 34 RN Senior XV caps and showcased his skills with Cornwall, Redruth, and Camborne rugby clubs, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the coaching team.

Owen expressed his gratitude to Andy by acknowledging his valuable contribution to the U23 team's hugely successful. Owen is confident that Ben will be a valuable addition to the U23 set up as the Head Coach. As the previous U23 forwards coach, Ben played a crucial role in the team's success during last season's Inter Service campaign, where they reclaimed the title against the Army in Aldershot with a resounding victory.

Ben's passion for rugby is infectious, and his energy resonates with both players and staff. This quality makes him the ideal candidate for the Head Coach role, and there is no doubt that he will inspire and motivate the team. With planning already in progress, Ben is eager to hit the ground running when next season's squad assembles for a trial weekend in HMS Temeraire at the end of the month.

Ben said, "I'm really looking forward to getting the U23s back together and hopefully find some new talent in the upcoming shakedown weekend. We still have a lot of the squad that was in last seasons U23s winning Inter Service squad; if we can add to this and put the hard work in the upcoming 3 months I am sure we will be looking at back to back Inter Service [win]."

The Cornishman is joined by Chris Warner as fowards coach with Craig Duncan bringing his flair from the pitch to the backs. Sean Hammond takes on the defence coach role and working quietly in the background is Matt Ford and the ubiquitous Guy Pallet as Team Managers.

Congratulations once again to Ben Priddey on his appointment as Head Coach. The rugby club is fortunate to have someone of his caliber leading the team, and the union is excited to see the success that lies ahead under his guidance.