The past two seasons have seen Wells compete at their highest level in rugby’s pyramid structure and their role in this was heartily acknowledged at the annual general meeting.
Following an internal review to find candidates to stand for the vacant positions, Mike Rigby has been appointed chairman and long-serving club stalwart Alan Skinner becomes president.
Rigby is born and bred in Tunbridge Wells and is a former player at the club and Mini Rugby coach. He has served on the club Board and was the incumbent youth chairman. He is married to Kate and has two children, Ollie and Eva.
As head of Business Services at Barclays Bank, he is hoping to bring his financial and commercial experience to the club as he looks to prepare the way for the next period of progress.
IN TOUCH: New chairman Mike Rigby brings financial expertise to the role
Rigby said: “It is an honour to be elected chairman of TWRFC, a club that plays such an important role in our community.
“I aim to bring the financial and operational performance up to the same outstanding level we see on the pitches week in, week out”.
Rigby has already appointed Steve Wickenden and Stuart Montgomery as co-chairs of playing with Jim Scully coming in as director of rugby. They will work with first-team coaches Simon Whatling and Aston Croall.
Scully said: “We have an excellent collection of players here at TWRFC and best-in-class coaches. This is a great club to be around right now and I extend a warm welcome to any new players who wish to join something special.”
In another significant move, day-to-day responsibility for the flourishing youth section will be split between Alex Nicholson as Mini Rugby Chair and Laurence Taylor, who assumes responsibility for the Junior section.
Also joining the board are Simon Parsons (Ladies), Martin Croker (operations), Simon Hughes (commercial) and Nick van Overstraeten (house and grounds) – he replaces Andy Child, who will remain on the board to provide continuity and stability.
Rigby thanked those who were standing down, adding: “The team that has stepped up to take TWRFC forward is very experienced and capable.
“I have no doubt that together the club will move on as one team, one community, one TWRFC.”
Pre-season kicks off
Pre-season training starts at St Mark’s on Saturday (July 6) from 9.30am, and then takes place every Tuesday and Thursday from 7.30pm and on Saturdays from 9.30am. Players of all abilities are welcome. Contact Jim Scully on 07973 412153 or visit twrfc.com
