Big guns in sights for Students’ challenge
LOUGHBOROUGH Students head coach Brad Jones is targeting a top-half finish in National Two West after ending last season in eighth.
The team is ready to take on tough opponents such as Taunton and Cinderford, who have come down from National One, with a mix of experienced players and promising new talent.
Jones told The Rugby Paper. “Our main aim is to give our performance athletes exposure to National League rugby which is a great platform to challenge these young men.
“Last year we finished mid-table, and this year our goal is to be in the top half, which will be a big challenge.”
The squad has seen several new signings over the summer, following the usual departure of graduating students.
Jones said: “With students graduating each year, we have big shoes to fill. The team dynamic is crucial, and it’s something that the coaching team and the players foster from day one.”
Key players to watch this season include Ed Harvey and Theo Mayell, who stood out in the engine room last year.
Jones added: “We are excited to see how they continue their development after last season. Kit Temperley also impressed with some outstanding finishes, and Jack Bracken is another player to watch. He was capped for England seven times at U18 level, followed by five caps at U20. Jack wearing the African Violet for the first time is a great moment, especially following in the footsteps of his brother Charlie.”
Jones knows it be a huge challenge facing the likes of Taunton and Cinderford, who can attract Premiership and Championship talent, but remains confident in their ability to compete.
He said: “It’s tough competing against teams from the league above but National League rugby is unpredictable, which makes it exciting. We have the ability to beat any team on our day.”
Balancing the demands of both National League and BUCS Super Rugby is another challenge for Loughborough, but one Jones relishes.
“We are fortunate to offer two first XV opportunities each week in different competitions,” he said. “Our players train together as one performance squad and play across both competitions during the season.”
Loughborough are known for their expansive style, especially on their 4G pitch, which suits their fast-paced approach.
“Our style of play causes problems for opponents if we are accurate and execute effectively,” Jones says. “Each week, we face new challenges and must evolve to keep challenging the opposition.”
With fresh faces and a commitment to dynamic rugby, Loughborough Students should be a dangerous side for opposition defences this term.
