MOST of Wellington Rugby Club’s county cup winning Under 18 side will be joining the senior ranks next season, writes Barry Knott.

Coach Allyn Chetland said yesterday: “Ninety-five per cent of the lads will be playing senior rugby next winter.

“Not only will they strengthen the 2nd XV which struggled this season, but some of them will be competing for a place in the first team, including Under 18 skipper Will Hodgson.

“It’s a great boost to know that they will be available next season. Our youth set-up is definitely paying dividends.

“We already have a very young lst XV which is getting better all the time.”

Wellington lost only three games in Western Counties West last season and ended their campaign with a run of 16 matches without defeat.

The only disappointment was the deduction of five points which cost them the championship.

“We have moved on since then,” added Chetland. “It’s no good looking back. What’s done is done.”

Wellington have also been boosted with the news that ex-England and Bath international Graham Dawe will be continuing as coach.

He led Wellington to the Cornwall and Devon League title in his first season with the club and almost steered them to more success during the past season.

On their form of the last two seasons Wellington will be one of the favourites to win Western Counties West next season.

However the 2nd XV need to improve after just managing to retain their status in Somerset One.

Since the demise of the 3rd XV, Wellington have found it difficult to field a strong 2nd XV on a regular basis.

Wellington Rugby Club will be holding its annual dinner and presentation night at the clubhouse on Friday. A picture special will appear in next week’s issue of the WWN.