Birmingham & Solihull Rugby Club has today confirmed that Ben Woods will act as first team coach next season, reporting to the recently-appointed Head of Rugby, Pete Glackin.

Ben Woods (33) played premiership rugby for Leicester Tigers 2008-2012, winning back to back Premiership titles with the Welford Road outfit in 2009 and 2010, as well a runners up medal in the 2009 Heineken Cup. He was also part of the side that won the LV Cup in 2012. Prior to that, he was a Cambridge University Blue and had a seven year stint at Newcastle Falcons.

Before his promising playing career was ended by injury in 2012, Ben Woods had also gained representative honours with England U21s, England 7s, England Students and England Saxons (playing in 4 Churchill cup tournaments). He was also a member of the England senior Elite Performance squad in 2009.

Since retiring from playing, the former flanker has had coaching stints with a number of Gloucestershire age group sides, as well as, most latterly, being forwards coach at National League 2 North side, South Leicester.

Woods will assist with first team training and match day duties, allowing Pete Glackin to oversee rugby development on a club-wide basis. Paul Williams and Dave Spencer – aka ‘Willy & Spanner’ - who stepped into the breach so successfully as interim coaches from mid January onwards, will also be part of next season’s backroom set up, giving support to Glackin and Woods when their respective busy schedules allow.

“I am delighted that we have been able to attract someone of the calibre of Ben to the Bees,” said Pete Glackin. “He was an outstanding player in his time and his experience and rugby knowledge will have great currency in the first team environment.”

“It is also fantastic news that we, as a coaching team, will be continue to be able to benefit from the advice and input of Willy and Spanner. They did a fantastic job at short notice in the second half of last season and are hugely popular with the players and supporters alike. Their support and contribution will no doubt be invaluable.”

Commenting on the announcement, Bees’ President Mike Brennan said “I am delighted that we have been able to line up such a talented and experienced backroom staff for next season. With Pete heading up all rugby matters at the club, supported by Ben and with the wise counsel of the ‘two sages of Gloucestershire’, we have a fantastic platform upon which to build for the new season.”

“Having the new coaching set up fully in place by mid May also puts us in an ideal position to ensure that our pre-season preparations are as good as they can be in readiness for the 2016/17 league campaign.”