News
Sean McCarthy returns as Forwards Coach
Bedford Blues are delighted to announce the return of former captain, Sean McCarthy who heads back to Goldington Road this week as Forwards Coach ahead of the new season.
The 30-year-old hung up his playing boots at the end of the truncated Championship season, following 81 appearances, back-to-back third place finishes and two seasons as captain at Bedford.
In total, McCarthy made over 170 appearances in England’s second tier and, alongside spells at Worcester Warriors and Leinster, brings plenty of experience to our pack, particularly offering tutelage to a young front row.
Whilst relatively fresh to the coaching arena, he has all the skill sets to develop in this new role and is already trusted by the Blues management and players. McCarthy will be working closely with forwards coaches at Northampton Saints, who have supported Mike Rayer in a difficult period.
Director of Rugby, Mike Rayer said: “We're really lucky because we moved quickly upon Alex Rae's departure and thankfully Sean still lives in the area and he really does fit the profile of what we wanted.
"He's pretty current having only finished playing last season, and with him being captain here previously I've worked with him closely so there's a huge trust factor. He worked under Alex for about six years, both here and Jersey, so as we wanted a smooth transition, it made sense.
"He was always going to head into coaching at some stage and this has presented a great opportunity for him. Saints were very good last week in sending over James Craig who is quite a prospect in the coaching world and helps with their pathway programme. He'll be helping us as well which is good."
The returning McCarthy added: “I'm very happy to be back involved at the club. It's an exciting group of players, with a great mix of experienced heads and also younger, ambitious guys.
"I'm really pleased to be a part of Bedford Blues in a different capacity and hopefully we can have a strong season."
Blues continue their pre-season preparations with the visit of Northampton Saints under the Friday Night Lights at Goldington Road. Tickets for this fixture are INCLUDED in all Season Ticket purchases, click here to buy individual match tickets.
