DEVILS APPOINT PLAYFORD AS HEAD COACH
January 1st, 2011 by Pete Wrigley

The Norwich Devils search for a new head coach has concluded with the appointment of long-servant Steve Playford to the position. Playford was offensive co-ordinator last season and steps up following the resignation of Andy Starling after just one year in the job.

Playford becomes the Devils 13th different head coach in what will be their 26th competitive season. He will hope to bring a bit more stability to the team in a job that has seen 7 of those coaches lasting for just a year or less, with only one, Pete Wrigley, lasting more than three years, when he completed a nine year stint.

Playford has been with the club since its inception in 1984, and played right up until last season, although he has been progressing more towards the coaching side over the last few seasons, spending more time coaching from the sidelines.

He is very enthusiastic about the clubs chances for the coming season, saying "I'm really looking forward to the challenge of being head coach of the Norwich Devils and seeing the development of this year's crop of players who are new to the sport, as they try to help the existing squad to improve on its winning season in 2010. As well as putting my own stamp on the team.

I will call upon the experience I have gained through playing under every head coach the club has had since its creation in 1984. I aim to keep the game enjoyable for all involved, players, coaches and watching fans alike, while remaining successful on the field."

Preseason training starts on Sunday 9th January at the Bayer Crop Science Social Club, Hellesdon Road, Norwich. Anyone interested in being involved should turn up ready to start at 10.30am.

Steve Plaford carries the ball against the Chiltern Cheetahs.