New Era for Swords RFC

A NEW coach, captain and president marked the beginning of a new era at Swords Rugby Club with big changes all round ahead of an expectant season at ALSAA. The club held their inaugural AGM last Wednesday and made a number of high profile appointments in an aim to make a real push for promotion next season.

Former Aer Lingus player-coach, Tony Lawless, returns as Head Coach, succeeding the departing affable Yorkshireman Noel Hayden. Lawless, who recently had spells coaching Clontarf, captained the side during their most successful era a decade ago and will be warmly welcomed back. Last season's player of the year, Richie Cowman, has been appointed Club President, with his predecessor Joe Reid named as vice-President.

Vice-captain Matthew Child will take the skipper's arm band for the new season, with Shane Mulligan filling in as vice and Leo Price has been named captain of the seconds.

In his last speech as President, Joe Reid reflected on a memorable first season under the Swords banner and congratulated the outgoing coach Hayden for his hard work. The highlight of the season was the eight-game winning run, as well as the victories over our local rivals Malahide and Balbriggan,' said Reid. He paid tribute to Hayden, who had been at the helm for three seasons, describing him as a fantastic servant to the club'.

Reid then announced the appointment of Tony Lawless as Head Coach and spoke of the new level of energy and commitment' he will bring to the role. 'We have been knocking on the door of promotion recently and hopefully we can make that last step. We are delighted to welcome Tony back, who will be a fantastic asset to the club.' Reid then thanked the players for efforts this season, paid tribute to the second side and reflected on a remarkable end of season tour to San Francisco. Special mention was also given to the Swords youth sides, who competed on the field with honour in their first season and will continue to grow next season.

Following the appointments already mentioned, the committee for 2006/07 was finalised. Damian Coleman was named Honorary Secretary, Brian Vaughan as Fixtures Secretary, Ben Traynor as Treasurer and Dave Kelliher as Assistant Treasurer. After 18 years service on the committee, John Bacon stepped down as International Ticket Co-ordinator, replaced by Alan Butler, while John Prendergast and Shane Mulligan were once again named as Youth Co-ordinator and Webmaster respectively. First team players Sean Webb, Gary Fogarty and Dave Cahill were also appointed onto the committee.

The club were delighted to announce that club sponsor T.P. Smith of the Old Boro Public House, Swords has agreed to continue his sponsorship.
It was also announced that the club will also compete in the renowned Towns Cup for the first time next season. A special awards evening, with guest players from past and present, is due to be held before the start of the season, while pre-season training begins in August.