The View from the Dugout.

At the time of writing this the 75th VE day celebrations are taking place, a significant time both in our history and for the Country. 

As a Country, we are proudly and bravely facing up to the COVID-19 fight and, importantly, we appear to be gradually winning. It is a time of great suffering and sadness, but also a time to celebrate the warriors in and out of uniform, working bravely and tirelessly for others and to enjoy the unity, belief, huge courage, and teamwork that is evident everywhere.  

As the Head Coach of the London Exiles RUFC, a player centred club, I am proud to be the custodian of the role of shaping the Club’s Warriors to push forward into a new era and a new winning season for the Exiles.

Preseason will start in the 2nd week of July (subject to Government guidelines).

We have a great founder President & Chairman, an energetic Committee that is effective and working as one team to deliver success on and off the field. The excitement and expectation for the season ahead is very high. 

Now is the time more than ever to recognise the past, and continue to build on it, to create a new chapter in the Club’s history. Now is the time for the Club’s Warriors to step forward and prepare for an Exiles winning season at all levels and in all respects.

I am excited to see you all soon for Preseason, which will be rewarding, fulfilling and will involve: -

• Fun and intense sessions. 

• A new playbook 

• Player Centred training 

• Position specific profiles

• Teambuilding

• Enjoyment

• Defending with attitude 

• Preseason Trip games

• Preseason Games

Above all, to develop the winning warrior mentality.

This preseason will give us all a chance to shake off the lockdown, regroup and go again, and to be bigger, stronger, harder & fitter than before.

All players are welcome, new and existing, because at the Exiles we are one team, one family working together for the betterment of the club and everyone.

Personally, I am looking forward to the new season with great optimism and positivity. The rugby values and the philosophy of the game are good both in life and on the green stuff. 

We work to the broadest principles of play, namely not letting our mates down & putting the hard work in to deliver, but also remembering to have a lot of fun. We are all involved in the game because we love it. Living the Exiles values, vison and purpose is how we do things around here.

As with all of life, time is short, so making the most of your time representing the London Exiles is so important. Be a warrior in the next chapter of the Exiles story and have a great time doing it.

See you all for Pre-Season.

-Mike Avis (Head Coach)