The 2026/27 season promises to be extra competitive in the Counties Cumbria League.
It’s being split into two divisions, now at Levels 7 and 8, with two very closely matched groups of teams.
Already there have been announcements of coaching changes at Aspatria, Creighton and Millom while at St Benedict’s comes news of a restructure of the coaching set-up.
Steve Nicholson has taken on the role of director of rugby, bringing a wealth of experience from across rugby union and rugby league.
Having been a player, coach and referee at both amateur and professional levels, his knowledge of the game is second to none.
Steve’s experience and leadership will be invaluable in supporting the coaching team and driving the club forward.
You can hear below Steve talking about the new set up with Cumbria Crack’s John Walsh:
The head coach is unchanged with Kristian Wood remaining at the helm after leading the club to Cumbria Shield success last season.
With a wealth of playing experience and a strong understanding of the game, he’ll be looking to build on that success and continue driving the squad forward.
Alex Wilson and Geoff Clements join forces as assistant coaches, bringing with them over eight years of coaching together in the club’s youth section.
Their long-standing partnership and commitment to developing players make them a valuable addition to the senior set-up.
Scrum coach is to be Jamie Jardine who brings a lengthy playing career at a high level and will use that experience to strengthen one of the most important areas of the game. His knowledge of the set-piece will be invaluable to the squad.
Defence and conditioning coach is Paul Cullnean who joins the coaching team with extensive experience from rugby league, having successfully worked across both codes. His expertise in defence and conditioning will play a key role in preparing the team for the season ahead.
Player and coach development will be in the hands of Richard Metcalf who has experience coaching at a high level and working within the RFU.
Richard will focus on developing both players and coaches, helping to build a stronger future for the club on and off the field.
Team manager is Andrew Middleton, a former player who brings valuable experience and leadership to the role. He will be a key figure in keeping the squad organised, supported and united throughout the season.
In the new set-up, the eight teams contesting Level 7 are Aspatria, Wigton, Hawcoat Park, Carlisle, Cockermouth, Whitehaven, St Benedict’s and Egremont.
The Counties 2 Cumbria will consist of Workington, Ambleside, Windermere, Creighton, Keswick 2nds, Penrith 2nds, Millom and Furness.
