A future post will feature our new manager but this one is about our new coach Joe Whatmore, who arrives at Monks Lane from Rams, where he was in charge of their third team, against whom Stags have had a number of keenly fought games.

A Kingsclere boy, Joe attended the Clere School where he showed his rugby versatility by playing hooker and on the wing. From school Joe had an Apprenticeship with London Irish working in the community and he has been involved with a number of clubs in his playing and coaching career, including Basingstoke. He has also coached Oxford Brookes, Southampton and Reading University and he cites his best rugby moment was steering Reading to Varsity victory as Head Coach.

Joe arrives at Monks Lane as Defence and Forwards coach with a particular responsibility for the Stags. He will be looking towards the senior teams being consistent in their approach and to, “battle for the top of the league.” We would all echo this. So, welcome Joe. Here’s to an enjoyable at successful tenure at NRFC.

Brian Lee