The numbers - 69 different rugby players have attended training in the first two weeks. Including various ex colts, current colts, every side we have represented at training and another new player this week in Nick Bellamy. Nick was making a fleeting visit to Newcastle before moving here in two weeks time. He said that he felt very welcome and is looking forward to getting stuck in upon his return.

This week was a continuation of improving our general fitness via small sided games. Loads of people getting the ball in their hands and feeling involved. Was great to see Stevie and Chris Thompson from the fours coming down. Tuesdays session saw almost 20 2's, 3's and 4's having some fun whilst the 1's and 2's put in some hard work nearby.

Thank you to Gareth Bowden, Graeme Cooper and Andy Holman for leading on the coaching and it was great to see Jez Nash dive into it this week by taking a bit of fitness for the first team squad.

On Sunday I head off to South Africa with the school for two weeks. Whilst I am away Gareth will lead on sessions I have planned for the group - next four sessions we move into unit work before upping the contact and defence work when I get back.

See you all in two weeks, work hard - Up the Vos !