Fanolua steps down as North head coach

» FORMER Gloucester star Terry Fanolua has stepped down as head coach of Cheltenham North RFC.

The Samoan international fly-half has been with the club for 12 months having taken the North through a tough season in 2021/22 and after discussions, there were differences in the vision for “future growth and recruitment” at the North and his departure was a mutual decision.

Chairman Paul Carter said: “Although it is sad to see someone of Terry’s incredible coaching abilities leave, we have to look at how we rebuild our historic rugby club.

“We were not able to commit a large number of southern hemisphere players incoming to the club and we wanted to look more locally.

“We have made a huge amount of progress in the off season which will deliver dividends for the season that lies ahead.

“Last season, we relied on a large number of Fijian players and we were fortunate to have them play for the club and a small number of them will be returning.

“We also fielded many of our Colts last season, all of whom stepped up when they were needed.”

The new coaching set up sees Matt Coles become head coach, supported by North legend and former captain Danny Thomas as backs and fitness and conditioning coach.

The club have also made investments off the field with the floodlights at Stoke Road replaced with LED lights, while the pitch has seen the goalposts remodelled, new subs benches and shelters and spectator areas have been improved and increased including disabled access to the banks.

Carter added: “These investments are important if we are to attract new local playing talent.

“In total, these improvements, with our new strength and conditioning gym, new sports therapy units, sports therapist and player insurance (above and beyond the basic RFU cover) represent an investment of more than £120,000 this year and we are confident it will pay dividends.

“We would like to thank Terry for his work at the club last season and wish him much success for the future.”