Booy excited by recruitment and retention

Sunday, January 21st 2018

Chairman Chris Booy says it’s an exciting time at Bristol Rugby, after the club announced nine new signings and four contract extensions on an action-packed Signed Up Saturday.

John Afoa, Shaun Malton, Nic Stirzaker, Yann Thomas, Aly Muldowney, Tiff Eden, Jake Heenan, Harry Thacker and Jordan Lay were all announced as joining the club ahead of the 2018/19 season, while Academy youngsters Will Capon, James Dun, Charlie Powell and Aaron Chapman have all agreed long-term contracts.

Booy believes the blend of potential and experience will benefit the club moving forward.

He said: “Pat [Lam] and Mark [Tainton] have done such a good job with recruitment. We identified the targets, we had two or three for each position that we were looking at and it’s all run very smoothly.

“What is particularly pleasing, is that we’ve done our business so early so that we’re ready, can get a settled squad and can start planning for next season.

“We’ve been able to attract some fantastic players – the likes of Steven Luatua, Charles Piutau, Ian Madigan and John Afoa – but also, it’s not just about those star names, although that experience is important."

Chairman, Chris Booy

“We’ve been able to attract some fantastic players – the likes of Steven Luatua, Charles Piutau, Ian Madigan and John Afoa – but also, it’s not just about those star names, although that experience is important.

“We’ve also had youngsters add some pace and excitement to it. So, for me, I’m really excited about our squad.”

With a new training ground on the horizon, Booy also believes the club’s off-field infrastructure will soon be one of the best around.

“We have the best rugby club stadium in the country, we’re going to have the best training facilities in the country, close to the best in Europe - so the infrastructure is there. We are hoping to start work in the summer,” Booy added.

Chris Booy joins Pat Lam and majority shareholder, Steve Lansdown in the changing room after victory over Cornish Pirates (JMP UK).

“We’ve got one of the best coaches in the world, and the important thing about Pat is that he’s a team player, he’s working well with everyone.

“He’s got the stature, but also shares the same passion as Steve Lansdown and I. He wants to be challenging for honours and he has the same drive and determination. That oozes out and when he talks to potential players, they feel that excitement.

“We realise that the infrastructure and the clarity of vision is key. That’s the anchor to it all. Everybody at Bristol Sport – across all the sports – is working together to move sport forward in the city and it’s something that we can all be proud of.”