RUGBY: Titans are back in training (From Somerset County Gazette)

RUGBY: Titans are back in training

7:00am Thursday 21st June 2012 in Sport

TITANS return to training next week as the Taunton club starts its build up to the National League season with a mouth-watering opening game at home against Redruth on August 4.

Coach Yapp continues with his ‘Open Door Policy’ by inviting players and colts from the clubs other teams to join in the pre-season build up.

Third XV captain Ben Goddard said: “It's like a breath of fresh air for the whole club to be involved.

“Tony's policies are unifying the club. It’s promoting a great spirit throughout Hyde Park and augers well for a good season all round.”

Yapp said: “I'm asking for hard work and honesty to define our players this season.

“Hard work because there is no substitute and honesty because I expect 100% with players committing heart, soul and spirit to the cause.

“Training starts at 7 pm with a ‘run around ‘to blow off the cobwebs on Tuesday.

“On Thursday I've arranged a barbecue for new players to mix in and get to know the squad. ] “Unity and team spirit are essential in building team spirit. The hard work starts in two weeks when fitness, skills and more fitness will be the diet.”

Yapp remained tight-lipped about his new signings but with only 12 of last year’s squad retained there will be new faces a plenty in the Titans squad.

“Preparation are going well in all areas and we are close to finalising our playing squad. Other players will be joining during the summer and I would like to add two quality imports from New Zealand and Samoa to stiffen the team.

“Our budget does not extend to accommodation and air fares and we're currently looking for some additional help in this area.

“I'm pleased with the way our local recruitment is going, but two big quality ball carrying players from the southern hemisphere would add the steel we need for a serious league challenge.

“I've seen first hand how much a couple of good Island boys bring to a team.

“The Fatelofa brothers were immense when I was at Chiefs and I would very much like to add a similar dynamic to our Taunton Titans programme.

Announcing new initiatives at the Hyde Park club promotions man Colin Bentley invited the wider community to recognise the opportunity rugby has to offer and get behind the Hyde Park club.

He said: “We have a presentation event in the club on July 11 and invite business people from both the private and public sector to contact us about this event.”