OLD Halesonians have been boosted by the arrival of a new first team coaching set-up ahead of the new season.

After a good 2013/14 campaign, Old Hales are now looking to continue their progression.

The new season will see them take on a host of quality sides that will include both Bromsgrove and Dudley Kingswinford, who both joined following relegation from the league above.

Lichfield, Burton and Peterborough will also pose a good challenge after their promotions.

Other teams in the league are Nuneaton, Sandbach, South Leicester, Sutton Coldfield, Bournville, Hinkley, Longton and Scunthorpe.

A new coaching team has been brought in to help them meet the challenge head-on.

Head coach Mark Evans will work with backs player/coach Matt Williams and assistant coach Steve Chinn.

Evans said: "Last Season was a fantastic effort from the players and we know as a squad where we got unstuck. We now have the structure and personnel to look to push on upwards in a very competitive and physical league."

Former Stourbridge, Bristol and Gloucester player Williams added: β€œIt’s a fantastic opportunity for me to work with a great set of lads that want to play a expressive and expansive style of rugby. The players and club want to be playing at the highest level so the atmosphere and support is fantastic to be a part of as a coach. I am really enjoying being back working in senior rugby and looking forward to getting the season started.”

Old Hales will warm-up for the coming campaign with a pre-season away friendly against Stourbridge on August 16.

A club spokesman added: "Our intention again this season is to compete at the highest level in all of our rugby sections, including mini, junior and colts.

"To do this we need to ensure that everything we do is geared to achieving as a developing club which provides opportunities for our young players in the community."