Following a recruitment and selection process for the Senior Head Coach role at OPM Rugby Club, we are delighted to confirm that we have appointed James ‘Digger’ Digweed into the position. James has significant experience in rugby, having played for many Plymouth clubs including OPMs in his youth, has coached a variety of rugby teams previously in men’s and women’s sections and most recently was our assistant coach for the seniors last season. He is an RFU Level 2 qualified coach and is currently working towards Level 3 as well as being heavily involved the club last season and building relationships, we are very pleased to have appointed this outstanding candidate.
Following a selection process which included the Executive Committee, Player and Colts representation, we were impressed with James’ approach, attitude and enthusiasm towards training and gameplay. He has also confirmed his coaching team who will bring new ideas and energy to the club and we are looking forward to seeing them all develop, communicate and support the players this season. Following three excellent seasons under Andrew Williams’ tutelage to gain promotion from Tribute Devon 3 and ensure Tribute Devon 2 consistency, we are looking to push on with a competitive side in preparation for an improved finish this season.
After being informed of the news, James provided the following statement:
I’m honoured to have been appointed Head Coach for the upcoming season. Having been involved with the club on and off since the age of 15, over 22 years and as such I have a deep-rooted connection and a strong desire to see the club continue to grow and succeed. With the talented playing group we have and the exceptional coaching team supporting me, I’m confident we can build momentum and continue to strengthen over the coming seasons.
I would also like to acknowledge the impact of Andrew Williams, under whom I had the privilege of working last season. His decision to step down marks a significant moment for the club, as he consistently guided the team to stronger performances over the past three years. I’m aware I have big shoes to fill, and I’m committed to continuing the positive trajectory he helped establish.
I'm extremely grateful for the quality and experience of my assistant coaches. Steve Coles will be joining to oversee the backs. Having also played in the all-Ireland league, clubs in Wales and having coached in various schools, Newport Gwent dragons and OPMs previously plus being a Strength & Conditioning coach, he brings invaluable insight and leadership, having both played for and captained the club in the past.
John Downey will lead the forwards. His pedigree speaks for itself—having represented Leinster at Schools and U19 level, as well as Ireland U19s in 2007, before moving to England to play for Richmond and then Championship side Esher. Now the announcement has been made, we will also be discussing with other coaches to support as well as well as confirming our excellent management team of which I already have a good relationship with from last season.
Our aim for the season is a top five finish. Last year, we were unfortunate to lose several matches in the closing stages, and I genuinely believe we were the strongest team in the league for the first 60 minutes of many games so we will look this season at how we can develop this going forward.
Recruitment will undoubtedly play a key role, but we already have a core group of highly talented players and I’m excited to work with them as Head Coach form here on in. We’ll be putting together a solid pre-season programme, including competitive fixtures, to ensure we’re fully prepared to hit the ground running when the season kicks off.
As a Committee, we feel that this is a very strong appointment with James knowing the club well by already having coached and supported our players and understanding the OPM values that we want to promote and achieve as a rugby club. We look forward to supporting him and the coaches & management team next season and to the positive results and outcomes we would like to see as an ever growing and successful rugby club who are always looking to develop and improve at all levels of the club.
I am sure you will join us in welcoming James into this Head Coach role within the club and supporting him and the other coaches both on and off the field going forward.
We look forward to seeing you all there in support and to what next season holds.
Kind Regards
Matt Glastonbury
OPM Chairman
