RUGBY: THURROCK’s new senior coach is David Mobbs-Smith.

He is being supported by Frankie Neal and Ali Makenzie in the new look coaching set-up. And Mobbs-Smith says he already feels settled at Oakfield.

He said: “I now feel very much at home.”

Mobbs-Smith – who has coached at Saracens and has worked with Middlesex on developing County players – is a Level 3 RFU Coach. He grew up in South Africa and developed into a skilled player, competing at U21 for the Durban Combined Forces team. He additionally attained South African Provincial colours in both volleyball and swimming.

The new coach has real expertise at working with players of all ages and abilities and whilst being passionate about rugby has a warm and engaging style that players relate to. He is a Level 3 RFU Coach.

“The impression I’ve got is that Thurrock could be a place that some people, in these modern times, might describe as a good old fashioned rugby club. “That is only partially true. Strong values based on community participation and local involvement coupled to a wonderful pride in their club might be traits from times past – but there is much more to the Oakfield set up.

“Maybe it’s the drive along the full length of Long Lane that makes you feel like you are visiting someone at home. But I believe it’s the people that you meet there.

" There have been plenty of strong handshakes, warm smiles and good luck wishes. “I am very fortunate to be given this opportunity.

“And I hope my philosophy on how rugby is coached and played will help to enrich all that come into contact with me.

“I also hope and that performances on the pitch are both entertaining and successful,” he added.