Callard: Pre-Season Work Laying the Foundations for 2026/27

Head Coach Jon Callard heads into his second season in charge of RGC, believing the foundations built during his first year have put the squad in a stronger position ahead of the new campaign.

Reflecting on last season and looking ahead to 2026/27, Callard said:

"Firstly, a huge thank you to everyone for the support you gave the boys last season. It wasn't the best of starts, but we grew together as a group and developed into a team that could compete with anyone. The rugby we played earned praise from far and wide, but for me, the most pleasing aspect was how we came together as a squad and demonstrated the way we believe rugby should be played.

"Planning a pre-season is never easy. You don't always know exactly what your playing group will look like or what challenges lie ahead. That said, I genuinely believe we're slightly ahead of where we were at this stage last year. We've assembled a strong squad, strengthened our coaching and support staff, and put together a clear programme for the weeks ahead.

"There are still a few positions we'd like to fill within the playing squad. Recruitment is always challenging when it's left until the last minute. From experience, I know how difficult it can be—I once spent 15 months working to sign a player because of the financial demands involved. If we're serious about competing consistently in the future, we need to identify and secure our recruitment targets much earlier. That's simply a lesson I've learned over the years.

"I'm delighted to welcome Nathan from the Academy and Ash from SRC, who have joined us to lead our strength and conditioning programme throughout pre-season. Working alongside the rest of the coaching staff, they've designed an outstanding eight-week programme. It won't be easy—far from it—but no stone will be left unturned. The work the players put in now will pay dividends once the season begins.

"Our pre-season is built around three phases. The opening four weeks focus on developing our aerobic capacity, strength and repeatability under physical pressure. The second block shifts towards contact conditioning before introducing full contact through our pre-season fixtures. The final phase is about sharpening everything we've built and tapering into the start of what will be an intense opening block of the season."

Building Stronger, Fitter Players

Strength and Conditioning Coach Ash Jones outlined the thinking behind this summer's programme and the standards being set.

"This year, with the support and input of Nathan, Josh and John, we've designed a programme that we believe will really benefit the lads.

"The aim isn't just to improve performance on the pitch. We're also focused on reducing injury risk, building stronger, more robust players, and making sure everyone is physically prepared for the demands of the season.

"The sessions have been tough, and the lads have worked incredibly hard. We're only in week two of pre-season, so there's naturally a bit of soreness and fatigue, but that's all part of the process. By weeks four and five, they'll be able to look back at the work they've put in and start to see the improvements in their strength, fitness and confidence.

"We have some big, powerful lads in the squad, but this season I don't just want us to be one of the biggest teams—we want to be one of the fittest as well. Fitness can be the difference in those tight games, and that's something we're determined to improve.

"Recovery has also become a key part of the programme. Stretching and mobility work are being encouraged after every session to help reduce tightness, aid recovery and keep the squad training consistently throughout pre-season."

Eyes on the New Season

With preparations continuing, Callard believes the challenge is to build on last season's strengths while continuing to evolve.

"One of the biggest coaching challenges is deciding what to keep and what to evolve. Last season, we were fortunate to have an excellent kicking game, supported by outstanding aerial skills, which became a real strength in both attack and defence. As we move into a new season, the aim is to build on those foundations while continuing to evolve our game. Rugby never stands still, and neither can we.

"An important part of that evolution is understanding how the game is being officiated. Last season, I spoke with the referee manager every week to ensure we had as much clarity as possible around interpretations. It's important that coaches, players and officials all work together positively because that is what helps produce the best version of the game for everyone.

"For now, our focus is firmly on the 2026/27 season. Every minute we invest during this pre-season is an opportunity to build something special. Let's make the hard work count, create memories that will last forever, and continue building a team that everyone connected with RGC can be proud of.

"Thank you again for your continued support. We can't wait to see you all back with us as the new season approaches."

RGC's preparations continue with a home pre-season fixture against Coventry on Saturday 29 August.

Support the Gogs throughout the 2026/27 campaign by securing your season ticket today: https://www.ethicalticketing.org/rgc/memberships