Centres Sam Grimshaw and Joe Jenkins are the latest players to commit to Bournville as they prepare for a return to the National Leagues.
The pair played important roles in helping Bourns win the Regional One Midlands title with Grimshaw producing an eye-catching individual performance when he scored five tries in the 62-26 victory over Dudley Kingswinford at Avery Fields.
Jenkins, a Wales Sevens international, was the model of consistency throughout the season and his experience and composure proved crucial in the closing weeks of the campaign when Bourns were missing the try-scoring threat of Nathan Decalmer through injury.
“We are hoping that Sam can have a similar pre-season to the one he had last year because he came back in great shape. It was just unfortunate that he got an injury early on that kept him out for the first half of the season,” said Head Coach Alex Grove.
“We are really hoping he gets a good summer under his belt and hits the ground running because he is someone who has the ability to make things happen in attack.
“His best position is probably inside centre but he has got an excellent skill-set. He can kick, pass, run and bring other people into the game. His eye for a gap is something that we very much want and need in our team.
“Joe, whether he plays centre or back three, he is Mr Reliable. He played the last few games of last season at full-back where I thought he could lead the backline a little bit more.
“He’s always got time on the ball and he’s someone who makes very few mistakes which is probably down to his experience. That composure at the back is something that we need and Joe offers that in spades.
“I’m delighted to have them on board again and I’m sure they will form a big part of our backline next season.”
Grimshaw joined Bourns four years ago from Drybrook having played for Hartpury University and his formative rugby at Sutton Coldfield.
Jenkins has just completed his second season at Avery Fields having arrived in Birmingham in 2024 when his academic studies brought him to the city.
An Australian by birth, Jenkins has played rugby in Brisbane, Massachusetts, Edinburgh and Swansea on his journey around the world.
He qualified to play through Wales his Welsh father and won international honours with them on the sevens circuit during his time in Swansea.
