Hancock back for backs

Tom Hancock re-joins Pooler in the role of Backs Coach which he’ll combine with a full time coaching role at the Dragons Academy. He has enjoyed a highly successful period with Llandovery RFC where he was a key component of their management team. The past couple of seasons saw Llandovery win back-to-back Premiership titles and they doubled up with the cup last season, whilst playing a fantastic brand of rugby. Tom will have an early reunion with his former colleagues given they will be visiting Pontypool Park on the opening day of the season.

On his return Tom said ‘I’ve been very fortunate to work with some outstanding people at Llandovery and Scarlets Academy and have learned so much. Specifically coaching the defence at Llandovery has improved my holistic understanding of the game and has definitely made me a more rounded coach.’

On the goals set for the backs this season he added ‘We’ve put specific targets in place with metrics such as touches, carries, linebreaks, defenders beaten & tries scored all of which we can quantify through our analysis. We’re absolutely committed to growing our game behind the pack to be more adventurous with an aim to rival the top teams in Super Rygbi Cymyu – Generally as a coaching team we’re really excited by the strength of the squad including some exceptionally talented youngsters. It’s great that Pooler have bought into the goals of Super Rygbi Cymru and it’s great to be working with the future stars of Welsh rugby.

Specifically re the boys who join Pooler alongside their Dragons commitments Tom said ‘Supporters are well aware of Morgan, Dylan, Sam, Huw and Walker’s abilities after their exploits last season. Evan Minto and Ryan Jones are both local lads that will bolster the back row and Owain James is a talented tight head. Ioan Duggan has been very sharp in pre season and supporters can expect to be entertained by Harri Ford, who is an exciting and creative outside half. All the boys have bought into the values we have at Pooler and I really think Super Rygbi Cymru is going to be fantastic for everybody in Welsh rugby