Devizes RFC

After a successful 8 years as Head Coach of Devizes Rugby Club, John Kimberley has stepped down from the role.  John is considered a legend at the club having taken Devizes to their highest level in their history after winning the Southern Counties South title in the 2012/2013 season, where Devizes enjoyed two years at South West 1 East (Level 6).

John joined the club along with Forwards coach Dave Sullivan in 2010/2011 following the tenure of Tim Unwin, and an ever improving season saw the Saddlebacks finish 8^th.  Following this season, in 2011/2012 Devizes started to put in some memorable performances which saw them finish in 4^th.  It was in 2012/2013 however, that saw Devizes establish themselves as the best in the league, with a final day win over Wimborne sealing their title triumph and promotion to South West 1 East which demonstrated the progression made throughout John’s tenure. 2013/2014 saw Devizes finish 7^th with some epic wins, not least on the road against Maidenhead and Newbury. John’s coaching was having a huge impact on the squad and this was highlighted at the end of the season, with 6 players featuring for Dorset & Wilts Seniors. The following season however saw perhaps the toughest period in John’s reign as Head Coach, as the Saddlebacks succumbed to a number of player injuries and a fourteen game losing streak.  Despite a late resurgence it was not enough to stave off relegation in 2014/2015. 

For the past three years, Devizes have been plying their trade in Southern Counties South under John’s tutelage where a number of experienced heads have retired.  With a young squad, a 4^th placed finish in 2015/2016 and a 6^th placed finish last season was achieved, before a disappointing campaign this year, saw the Saddlebacks finish in 8th in Southern Counties South.

The club would like to thank John for his tremendous contribution to the club over the past 8 years, showing outstanding commitment and loyalty throughout. Devizes Rugby Club wishes John all the best for the future.