Gav and Paves commit their futures

There has been much good news emanating from the Cornish Pirates of recent, but none more so than that which confirms joint head coaches Gavin Cattle and Alan Paver have signed contracts for next season.

Both long-serving and respected former players, they were appointed as co-coaches back in 2016 following the departure of former Director of Rugby Ian Davies. Since then, the pair have grown into their roles and now have a wealth of experience behind them. Fully committed they deserve enormous credit for their development of committed players and what together they have achieved as a team, culminating last season in the Cornish Pirates finishing runners-up in the Championship, which is their highest ever placing.

Gavin has commented:

“I feel privileged to be in the job for another year. Under Dicky’s ownership we had an exceptional time, and as we enter a new era part of my duty now is to help make that transition go as smoothy as possible.

“This year has been more challenging than last. We had more experienced players then, whereas we have had to develop more this time around, but with a determination to see things through. As we have seen, the players have responded admirably.

“Yes, Alan and I have been given credit, but we mustn’t forget we have a fine team of support staff behind us. There are not masses of bodies here, however we have been very fortunate that everyone goes above and beyond.”

Alan also said:

“Obviously, I am delighted that I’m continuing my teamwork with Gavin and, more recently, with Joe (coach Joe Walsh) who has taken on a lot of the responsibility this year. We are the three amigos!

“We know we are going through a transition stage as the club looks to stabilise, and I feel Gav and I have a real good handle on how that works and what we need to do year by year. Our passion for the club and the community is always there.

“The stage where we are at is really pleasing, and we look forward to the future in the hope that we can build still further.”