HARWICH and Dovercourt began their pre-season on July 2 and have been training extremely hard since.

The club has a new addition to the coaching staff with former Colchester RUFC head coach Danny Johnston coming on board as backs coach.

With head coach Shane Manning, assistant Jim Hayter and Johnston, Harwich and Dovercourt have an excellent coaching set up.

With a couple senior players stepping down this season Harwich have resisted the temptation to go after players from other clubs, rather focusing on the youth of the club to fill any void.

With 14 players given their first team debut last season, the depth at the club is looking very good.

Manning said: “The players have been training hard and really showing great heart and skill.

“The fitness sessions have been very hard and everyone has stepped up to the challenge. We are looking forward to the upcoming season and with teams such as Colchester seconds and our local rivals Mistley, the season promises to be a hard but enjoyable one.

“New club captain Kyle Hutchins and his players are fully aware that in order for them to have a good season a lot of hard work from them is required.”

Harwich train every Tuesday or Thursday from 7.30pm at the Low Road Ground, players of all levels welcome.

Manning can be contacted on 07956 148746 for more details.