HELENSBURGH Rugby Club have appointed a new senior men's head coach for the upcoming campaign.

Gregor Mathieson comes to the club with an extensive record in youth coaching as well as a playing background at Loch Lomond RFC.

He'll lead the coaching of both the first and second teams as the combined Lomond-Helensburgh squads prepare for life in West Division 2 and West Reserve Division 2 respectively.

Reflecting on his appointment, Gregor commented, "I'm eager to get started. After more than a decade coaching juniors, I feel ready to step up and contribute to the advancement of Lomond-Helensburgh first and second XVs.

"I'm grateful for this opportunity and look forward to showcasing some thrilling rugby."

Gregor will be collaborating with assistant coach Iain Fletcher, whose considerable experience is expected to bolster both teams' performance in 2024-25.

A club spokesperson said: "Gregor brings a wealth of experience from his extensive background in youth coaching, where he has honed his skills in perfecting players' techniques, including the art of the perfect kick-through Kick10 Ball.

"We extend our gratitude to both of them for joining us on this journey."

The Kick10 Ball, developed by Gregor, is described as "the perfect tool specifically designed to improve your kicking in rugby", with each ball adorned with 10 motifs to improve players' execution of their kicks.

The Lomond-Helensburgh first XV begin their league campaign against Clydebank at Ardencaple on August 24, with the second XV kicking off their competitive season at home to their counterparts from Strathendrick on September 14.

In the meantime, pre-season training for both adults and under-18s continues at Ardencaple every Tuesday and Thursday night at 7pm.