NL1 - Signings, Retentions & Departures 22/23

Press release from Moseley:

Birmingham Moseley share a joint announcement regarding the departure of Ashley Johnson to take forward his coaching career with Wasps.

Following Richard Beck’s decision to step down from his role due to personal reasons, Wasps are delighted to announce that former player, Ashley Johnson, has agreed a deal to become the Club’s new Senior Academy Forwards Transition Coach.

Fan favourite Johnson, who joins us from National League 1 side Birmingham Moseley Rugby, won the hearts of the Wasps faithful during his time as a backrow in the eight years he spent at the Club between 2012 and 2020.

Speaking of Johnson’s signing, Men’s Head Coach, Lee Blackett, said:
“To have one of the best signings in our history back at the Club is great news. During his time as a player, he was a key member of the squad and his energy around the training ground was infectious.

“He understands what it means to be a Wasp, which is a huge advantage for an Academy Coach who is developing players to join the senior squad.
“His work at Birmingham Moseley has been impressive and we are delighted to have him back with us.”

Johnson shared his excitement to be joining Wasps Academy:
“I am delighted to be joining Wasps Academy and look forward to developing the next generation of Wasps Players.
“I want to thank Birmingham Moseley for giving me the opportunity to learn and grow as a coach in the last couple of years. Adam Balding and Pete Glackin have been instrumental in mentoring me and I want to wish them and the Club all the best for the new season.
“I am excited be a part of Wasps again, it almost feels like all those years back when I first joined the Club.”

Beck, who joined Wasps in June 2019, has been instrumental in the Academy set up during his time. The Club would like to thank him for his hard work and dedication during his time with us.

Matt Williams, Academy Manager, commented: “Richard leaves Wasps with our very best wishes, he has been a crucial part of the Academy staffing group over the last few years. His work ethic & knowledge have earnt him great respect from staff & players alike. He will be a tough act to follow.

“It will be great to welcome Ashley back to the environment. His knowledge of the game is excellent and will really add to the players development. It will also be an excellent opportunity for Ashley to continue his development as a coach!”

Adam Balding, Birmingham Moseley Director of Rugby said:
“ Ashley came to us following a stellar playing career with South Africa and Wasps as a player & forwards coach. Ashley quickly made his mark both on and off the field becoming an inspiration to players, particularly in our mini and junior sections. Although relatively new to the coaching role he passed on his considerable experience to players at all levels of the club. Ashley was instrumental in helping Birmingham Moseley to gain a reputation for having one of the most formidable packs in National League 1.

Whereas we are sorry to see Ashley go we are proud to have played a part in helping him pursue his coaching career and we wish him every success in his new role with Wasps, the door will always be open to welcome Ashley and his family back to Billesley Common.”

Ashley played a few games last season, usually at hooker, but I don't think was intending to this season.  We'll miss him, but we clearly can't stand in his way when an opportunity like this presents itself.

With the recruitment so far DMP could be a surprise package, if the scrum and front row are solid to let their backs go! Who knows they could push Rosslyn Park? 

Apparently there are a few more to be announced also - returning players and additional all blacks and a few from north of the border.  

Darlington Mowden Park have welcomed a trio of Durham University players into the 1st XV squad as preparations continue for the 2022/23 season. Joe Collier (scrum half), Hamish Murray and Michael Carr (both props) have all joined up with Mowden’s pre-season training sessions, and will be available at certain periods around their university commitments.

The trio will continue to train with the club during pre-season and the early part of the season before the Durham programme starts back up in full. Asked about welcoming them into the squad, DMP Director of Rugby Garry Law said: “It's been great having the lads involved so far. Hopefully we can see some availability from them in the early part of the season and at periods throughout. They have integrated very well into the squad and added competition throughout.”

Mowden have signed Max Fraine from Waimea Old Boys. The 22-year-old hooker is a product of the Crusaders Academy and will join his teammates in Darlington after the season is finished in New Zealand.

Very good player. If the national 7s teams were organised he'd be playing for England.

Sat 23 Jul 2022 10:02

Rian Hamilton (New Signing)- Rian joins us from National 2 North team, Wharfedale where he has been a prolific try scorer the last 3 seasons. Last season he crossed the whitewash on 22 occasions. Rian has previously represented Yorkshire Carnegie and a number of high-profile teams on the 7’s circuit. He has also represented his home county Yorkshire in the recent County Championships.