Known to most around the club as “Pugs”, Gareth is a hugely respected figure at Southport RFC and someone who understands the club, its people and its values inside out. His connection with Southport began in the mini and junior section during the 1990s, before he went on to make his First XV debut in 1999.

Since then, Gareth has represented the club across 26 seasons and made more than 450 senior appearances. A former First XV captain, he has been a central part of the club both on and off the pitch. His commitment, standards and loyalty have made him a credit to Southport RFC, and his appointment reflects the club’s desire to build on recent success while continuing to strengthen the pathway from junior rugby into the senior section.

In recent years, Gareth has played an important role within the coaching structure at the club. He has been heavily involved with the Colts, who enjoyed an outstanding season and went on to win the league, while also being part of the First XV coaching team. During that period, the First XV have enjoyed one of the most successful spells in recent club history, winning the league title and two cup competitions across the last two seasons.

Gareth’s appointment comes at an exciting time for Southport RFC. With a strong senior squad, a thriving mini and junior section, and a clear pathway for young players coming through the club, his role will be key in supporting the continued transition from junior and Colts rugby into the senior game.

As Director of Rugby, Gareth will help oversee the rugby programme across the club, supporting coaches, players and teams while helping to shape the next stage of Southport RFC’s development.

Speaking about his aims as Director of Rugby, Gareth said: “My initial aims are focused on building strong foundations for the future of rugby at Southport Rugby Football Club.

First and foremost, I want to help redevelop the women and third team sections, creating an environment where we can consistently fulfil fixtures while building a positive culture that people genuinely want to be part of. Participation, enjoyment and belonging are vital if grassroots rugby is to thrive.

The second team had an excellent league season, so supporting their ambition and encouraging integration throughout the club is extremely important. The first team is very close to my heart and, following a superb promotion, I will be doing all I can to keep the current squad together while strengthening where possible to ensure stability and success in their new league.

A huge focus will also be placed on improving the transition from junior to senior rugby. We have a fantastic junior section and it is essential that we continue developing clear pathways for young players coming through the club. Alongside that, I want to strengthen and expand our coaching resources so we can create greater consistency throughout the club.

The aim is to develop systems, calls and playing patterns that become part of the club DNA, from the first team right through to the higher junior age groups, while still allowing coaches the freedom and licence to adapt within a framework that best suits their individual teams and players.

Another important objective is to build strong partnerships with key schools and colleges to help protect and grow Colts rugby. Strong relationships within education are critical to the long-term health of any community club.

I’ll also be looking to oversee and support coaching development from U17s through to senior rugby, ensuring players and coaches alike feel supported as they progress through the club.

Above all, in what is currently a difficult climate for grassroots rugby, I want us to show what a gem Southport truly is. We have an outstanding community, fantastic people and a junior section that is absolutely the lifeblood of the club.

If we continue pulling together, supporting one another and creating an environment people are proud to represent, I genuinely believe we can buck the trend and become a guiding light for community rugby.”

Speaking on his appointment, Gareth added: I’m delighted to be appointed as Director of Rugby at the club that has given me so much over the last three decades.

It goes without saying that I’ve experienced some significant highs and lows throughout my life, and the structure, support and friendship of team mates and members of the club, have played a huge part in shaping the person I am today.

I’m determined to ensure those same opportunities, values and support networks are there for many more people in the years ahead. Although i love the game and we strive for excellence on the field Rugby clubs are about far more than what happens on a Saturday and Sunday afternoon. They create friendships, purpose, belonging and memories that last a lifetime.

This role also provides a great opportunity to bring parity alongside the Director of Minis and Juniors and help align a genuine whole club approach. From minis and juniors through to Colts, senior rugby, ladies rugby and our wider social membership, the aim is to create one connected club with a shared identity, culture and direction for the future.

I’m incredibly proud to take on the role and excited for what lies ahead at Southport Rugby Football Club."

Southport RFC would like to congratulate Gareth on his appointment and thank him for his continued commitment to the club.

We look forward to seeing him help lead the next chapter of rugby at Southport RFC.