Kenilworth RFC

Kenilworth Rugby Club can confirm that 1st XV men’s coaches Jon Lowdon and Todd Freemantle have resigned from their positions as head coach and backs coach, respectively.

They will leave their roles at Glasshouse Lane at the end of the season, following the 1st XV’s last game, at home, against Silhillians.

Both coaches have been influential during successful periods at the club, and this season they have played integral roles in the development of the club’s best players.

Ex-Coventry and Macclesfield centre Lowdon, who has been head coach for two seasons after stepping up from his role as skills coach, said: “This season has been incredibly challenging, in terms of results and player retention, with injuries making it even tougher.

“While we haven't had the success we hoped for on the pitch, I am immensely proud of the commitment and resilience shown by all the players, young and old, who have pulled on the blue and yellow jersey.

“Leading the senior group through the club’s centenary year has been a privilege, despite the difficulties we’ve faced.

“It has also been a real pleasure to work with the mini and juniors’ section on Sunday mornings.

“Seeing the next generation of Kenilworth players developing their skills and love for the game has been a true highlight of my time at the club.

“I want to thank everyone who has stuck with us through the highs and lows, and I wish Kenilworth Rugby Club all the best for the future.”

After four seasons at the club as player-coach, Freemantle plans to move back to one of his former clubs.

In his time at Ks, he has provided high quality and considered leadership on and off the pitch.

On his decision to move on, the 34-year-old said that now feels the ‘right time’, adding: “This decision was not made lightly, as my time at Kenilworth has been incredibly rewarding, both on and off the pitch.

“I have been fortunate to make lifelong friends and to be part of a club that has always been welcoming and supportive to me and my family.

“I am truly grateful for the opportunities I have had and for the sense of community that the club fosters.

“The club is entering a period of rebuilding and heading in a new direction.

“Due to my work commitments and other coaching responsibilities, I am unable to dedicate the time required to support and facilitate this next chapter.”

The men’s 1st XV will be relegated from Regional One Midlands and play next season at Level 6.

Informal conversations with prospective coaches have been held and the club hopes to announce something formally in the coming days.

Director of Rugby Jamie Peacock will also host a Senior Men’s Rugby Meeting next week – timings to be confirmed - where more detailed updates will be given on next season, the new coaching set up, and any questions answered from members and/or players on any other matters.

He added: “This has been one of the more demanding seasons in the club’s history and Jon and Todd have had to face unreasonable and unexpected challenges.

“Their efforts in confronting those cannot be called into question.

“A significant upheaval of the playing squad from last season was compounded by the loss of several senior players to long-term injury.

“As a result, they have had to rely heavily on a very young and inexperienced squad who were understandably underpowered and unable to compete effectively at Level 5.

“It is credit to Jon and Todd how quickly and markedly those players have improved, and for that alone the club has a huge amount to thank them for.

“They have been assets to the club for a long time. Both are very talented coaches and great characters who will be very successful elsewhere.

“They will always be welcome at Glasshouse Lane.”