Bournville have confirmed that seven members of last season’s first team squad have left the club.
Centre Rob Knox, prop Chad Thorne and wing Dan Rundle, who all arrived at Avery Fields last summer, have departed along with hooker Jake Bailey, utility backs Rhys Williams and Joe Nellany and wing Will Aylen.
Williams has signed for Bromsgrove, Nellany has joined Moseley Oak and Bailey has been recruited by National One newcomers Clifton. Aylen, who missed all last through injury, is moving out of the area.
They join hooker James Weaver, who has retired to take up a coaching position with Bournville Blues, tighthead prop Stef Thorp, who retired at the end of last season, loosehead prop James Burgoyne – who is moving to Devon – and full-back Owen Williams, who moved to London in December, whose departures have already been announced.
“We’d like to thank all those players who are leaving for their contributions to the club,” said Bournville Head Coach Alex Grove.
“We wish them all well for their future ventures and they will always be assured of a warm welcome back at Avery Fields.
“Rhys is comfortable playing 10 or 15 and offers a running threat which is something we will need to be mindful of when we face Bromsgrove next season.
“His standout moment in a Bournville shirt, for me, was his match-winning kick against Hinckley at home in the final match of the 2023/24 season.
“Jake has the opportunity to play in National One with Clifton. He’s a quality player with a lot of potential and we wish him all the best for the new challenge.
“Joe Nellany is an excellent all-round player, someone who has time on the ball in attack and hits hard in defence.
“He’s able to make a big impact on the game from, ten, 12 or 15 and he’ll be a real asset to Moseley Oak next season.
“Chad Thorne, Dan Rundle and Rob Knox have left the club after 12 months. They are all experienced players so their presence around the first team will be missed.”
