Hartlepool Rovers Rugby Club is building towards an exciting 2026/27 season, with refreshed leadership structures, a professional pre‑season programme, competitive rugby across both senior sides, and major developments around the club. With clear ambition on and off the pitch, there has never been a better time to join Rovers.

As we head into the new campaign, several key changes have been made within the rugby leadership team.

After stepping down as Head Coach, Darren Smith will continue as Director of Rugby, overseeing all rugby matters and ensuring a strong, joined‑up approach across the club.

John Padget and Tom King remain in place as Senior Coaches, providing continuity, experience, and stability. They will be supported by Player‑Coaches Shane Jeffery and Steven Barnfield, whose on‑field leadership and rugby knowledge will be invaluable throughout the season.

Jack Gunn continues as 1st Team and Club Captain, supported by his vice‑captains in driving standards, performance, and club culture.

The Heughers will enter the new season with a refreshed leadership setup.
After many years of sterling service to the Heughers and the wider rugby club, Ian “Miffy” Smith is taking a well‑earned step back. The club would like to place on record its sincere thanks for the enormous contribution made over many years.
Stepping into the role of Heughers Team Manager is Kev Dunn, who has successfully guided a junior group from Under 6s all the way through to Colts. One of the major attractions of Hartlepool Rovers is the strength of our player pathway, and with a number of Kev’s Colts now moving into senior rugby, Kev is ideally placed to support and guide them through that important transition.

Kev will be supported on matchdays by Tony Cooper, Andy Palmer, and Paul Arnell, ensuring the Heughers are well organised and fully supported throughout the season.

The Heughers compete in the Candy League and, alongside their regular league fixtures, will also contest the Pyman Cup, offering competitive rugby and development opportunities throughout the campaign.

Professional Pre‑Season Programme – 2026/27
Rovers are proud to partner with Dan Charters PT to deliver a 10‑week structured pre‑season programme for all players.
The programme will include:
Fitness testing and benchmarking

Weekly structured conditioning sessions

Nutrition provision and advice

Personal, position‑specific training programmes

All sessions will utilise the club’s excellent on‑site gym facilities, operated by Dan Charters.

Hartlepool Rovers are proud to run a player sponsorship scheme, allowing local businesses and individuals to directly support players while strengthening connections within the community.
Last season, 26 players were sponsored, with sponsorship providing each player with a Macron player kit package. The scheme not only supports players but also creates valuable links between the club, local businesses, and supporters, reinforcing Rovers’ place at the heart of the community.

Hartlepool Rovers offers far more than just rugby. We provide a supportive, ambitious environment designed to help players perform, develop, and enjoy their rugby.

What we offer:
Dedicated and experienced coaching teams across all sides

Professional, structured pre‑season strength and conditioning

Access to our partner 1st Team Physio, with regular injury and recovery clinics

A Players’ Benevolent Fund supporting players injured while representing the club

Competitive rugby across both senior teams

Opportunities to benefit from player sponsorship, including Macron kit packages

High‑quality player stash packages supplied by Macron

Veo video analysis sessions to support individual improvement

Excellent socials throughout the season, including an end‑of‑season tour
This season saw the club travel to Liverpool, including a fixture against Waterloo

A welcoming environment for returning players and those coming back to rugby after time away


The club continues to invest heavily in its facilities, creating one of the strongest rugby environments in the region.
Developments include:
A second training pitch

Excellent matchday facilities with stands and floodlights

Fully equipped on‑site gym

A brand‑new changing room block, due to be completed ahead of the new season

Discounted bar prices for club members


Join Us for 2026/27
Whether you’re:
Looking for a new challenge

Returning to rugby after time away

Progressing from Colts into senior rugby

Or simply wanting a change of scenery

Hartlepool Rovers would love to hear from you.
Contact Darren Smith on 07730 564573, or message any of our social media pages for an informal chat.
Now is the perfect time to join Hartlepool Rovers Rugby Club.