BLACKBROOK have appointed the BARLA International duo of Jason Mitchell and Paul Toole as first team coaches for the coming 2004/05 campaign.

Brook rugby secretary, Dave Hunt, said: "Jason is the ideal calibre of young coach we have been looking for and we were delighted when he and Paul came to the Rugby Committee with their ambitious plans to take the club forward."

Mitchell has been involved with Blackbrook since first joining the Royals 20 years ago.

Toole has just returned from the BARLA Tours of Russia and Australia, and both are aware of the huge potential of several young players at the club and can pass on their international experience to the team.

Last season's coach Dave Marsh is remaining with the club in the role of conditioner.

Ian Dolan and Dave Prescott will remain in charge of the second team and Brook hope to announce an Under 18s coach shortly.

Pre-season training has already started at Boardmans Lane, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm. However, any players new or current should get down to the club where they would be made welcome by the coaching staff.