Cole's Farewell
As Winter turns to Spring all eyes are now firmly focussed on the Inter-services. The Senior XV have a had promising start to the new campaign under their new management and coaching staff recording an impressive victory away in France after the reversal against Oxford University. These strong performances coupled with the return of a number of senior players from operational tours and injury means the future looks very bright. The Women have started with a bang this year recording victories away at Paington and Taunton; which was particularly impressive on a bitterly cold night. The defensive power shown by the Women was really something to see. They continue their preparations with their annual fixture against Trojans on 12 Mar 08. The Ancient Mariners are now playing a brand of rugby both the players and supporters alike are enjoying under head coach Mick Connolly. The squad of 25 are a decent mix of age and treachery and have produced some good performances against good quality opposition. For the first time in a number of years the Vets really took the Prison Service on head to head. This will be my last column as I head to a new challenge offered to me by the RFU. The decision to leave Navy rugby behind has not been a easy one, but I feel the time is right to allow someone else the fun I have had over the last 7 years. To all three teams in the Inter-Services I wish you every success and look forward to seeing positive results come April and May. A final thank you to all who have supported me over the years it has been great fun, even if results haven’t always gone our way. Good luck to all. [The final column form Sid Cole? Time will tell. Many thanks Sid from all of Navy Rugby and enjoy your time with England Counties - Ed]