What’s Next for the Cornish Pirates? Coaching Duo Sign On for Another Season

Gavin Cattle and Alan Paver extend their contracts as joint head coaches

There’s more good news coming out of the Cornish Pirates camp as joint head coaches Gavin Cattle and Alan Paver have signed new contracts to lead the team into the next season.

Gavin and Alan, both well-respected former players, have been at the helm since 2016 following the departure of Ian Davies. Over the past nine years, they’ve steadily built their coaching experience and helped shape a determined and competitive squad.

Highest Ever Finish

Their leadership was most recently reflected in the Pirates’ remarkable second-place finish in the RFU Championship last season – the club’s highest ever position.

Gavin said:

“I feel privileged to be in the job for another year. Under Dicky’s ownership we had an exceptional time, and as we enter a new era part of my duty now is to help make that transition go as smoothly as possible.

“This year has been more challenging than last. We had more experienced players then, whereas we have had to develop more this time around, but with a determination to see things through. As we have seen, the players have responded admirably.

“Yes, Alan and I have been given credit, but we mustn’t forget we have a fine team of support staff behind us. There are not masses of bodies here, however we have been very fortunate that everyone goes above and beyond.”

“Three Amigos” Leading the Way

Alan also shared his thoughts on continuing in the role:

“Obviously, I am delighted that I’m continuing my teamwork with Gavin and, more recently, with Joe (coach Joe Walsh) who has taken on a lot of the responsibility this year. We are the three amigos!

“We know we are going through a transition stage as the club looks to stabilise, and I feel Gav and I have a real good handle on how that works and what we need to do year by year. Our passion for the club and the community is always there.

“The stage where we are at is really pleasing, and we look forward to the future in the hope that we can build still further.”

The club hasn’t announced any further changes, but with Gavin and Alan confirmed for the new season, fans can expect the Pirates to continue building on their recent successes.

📷Alan Paver and Gavin Cattle - Photo credit: Brian Tempest