The New Year is already looking very exciting at Withycombe Rugby Club, with the Withies understandably “thrilled” to welcome Adam Clayton, 'Clayts,' as their new player coach from early 2024, writes James Tapp.

A standout player with a strong rugby background at Bath Academy and Exeter Chiefs, Birmingham and Solihull Bees, Cornish Pirates and more recently as player coach at Old Halesonians. Adam’s strength and fitness, coupled with his vast experience, will make him a prized asset for Withycombe, both as a coach and player.

Adam will slot in alongside long-standing coach Sam Williams adding his extensive playing experience and passion for player development to create a strong coaching team.

Rick Libbey, Withycombe Director of Rugby, said: "We are very excited to sign Adam who will bring new ideas and experience that will undoubtedly help with the excellent player development we have seen over the past few seasons. I am sure he will have a positive impact on our players and the club as a whole, reinforcing our commitment to player and club development on and off the field."

Mervyn Richards, Chair of Withycombe Rugby Club, echoed the sentiment, stating: "We are thrilled to welcome Adam Clayton to Withycombe. His commitment to player development aligns with our vision for the club. With Adam at the helm, we are confident in the continued success of our first team."

Adam Clayton's role as a player-coach signifies a new chapter for Withycombe Rugby Club, reinforcing their commitment to excellence and player development. As the club gears up for the rest of the season, the Withycombe family eagerly anticipates the positive influence and strategic insights that Clayton will bring to the first team.

The men’s team at Withycombe signed off for Christmas with an excellent 55-0 victory Plymouth Argaum but Withy Ladies slipped to a defeat at Exeter Saracens.

On the junior side of the club, the Under-7s took part in some festive rugby with their counterparts at Exeter Saracens. As well as the matches, the players took part in some skills and drills, followed by a Christmas round of Bulldog with lots of Ho Ho Ho’s.

All brilliant fun and the new year is going to be very exiting at Withycombe RFC.