The club is delighted to confirm that Dan Orwin has re-signed as Head Coach of the senior teams, as the club continues to strengthen its coaching group ahead of the new season.

Continuity at the top provides a strong platform for progression, with several key developments reinforcing the senior programme.

Josh Longson steps into a player-coach role as forwards coach following the departure of Danny Maher. A four-season leader and last year’s 1st Team Captain, Longson brings to the squad energy, standards, an RFU Level 3 coaching qualification, alongside his experience as a coach at Stonyhurst College. josh will step down from his captaincy role as he takes on his new responsibilities.

Speaking on his new role, Longson said: “This feels like a natural progression. We’ve got a great pack and I’m confident we can build on where we finished last season. A big thank you to Danny for everything he’s done, it’s been hugely appreciated.”

Hoppers also welcome Matt Sturgess, who joins from Sedgley Park as a player-coach leading the backs. A former Hoppers junior, he returns to Lightfoot Green with strong National League experience and a deep connection to the club. Sturgess is also an RFU Level 3 qualified coach, further strengthening the group.

Sturgess added: “It’s a full circle moment coming back to Hoppers. I’m excited to get stuck into pre-season training and contribute both on and off the field.”

Cory Wallace will continue as our 2nd Team Lead Coach, while also stepping into a 1st Team Scrum Coach role. Cory has done a fantastic job over the past two seasons, and this new role acknowledges his hard work and enthusiasm.

Karl Ince remains as Assistant 1st Team Coach, continuing to lead on strength and conditioning.

Danny Maher will stay connected to the coaching programme in a consultancy role, offering specialist support with the hookers.

Head Coach Dan Orwin, said: “We’ve got a strong coaching group in place heading into the new season. Josh stepping into this role is a big positive, he drives standards and leads from the front. Sturge is a huge addition for us. His game understanding is excellent, and he’ll have a big influence both as a player and a coach.”

On the new coaching structure, Preston Grasshoppers Chairman of Rugby, Michael Bailey, said: “We are very optimistic about the forthcoming season. Dan Orwin has settled into the Head Coach role brilliantly. Both the club and I have the upmost confidence in him going forward. He is someone you can back and rely on.

“Very sorry to see Danny Maher leaving but I have a bet that he will pop his boots on next season for us. What will he talk about if he can’t moan about his knees! Great rugby guy.

“Someone who is invaluable to our coaching team is Cory Wallace. Cory is an unsung hero looking after our developing 2nd team who were outstanding last year, finishing second in the league behind the formidable Caldy 2nd XV. The Hoppers 2nd team lads love playing for Cory and he is so important for the development of our future talent.

“Our squad has been strengthened next season with quality and experience. After having finishing last season on a strong note, we hope to carry that into 26-27.

“It’s fabulous to promote Josh Longson to forwards coach and reward him for his dedication. A huge welcome to Matt Sturgess who is a well-known character from around the rugby circuit. He already has added a lot to help Hoppers go forward. I believe with Josh, Matt.

“Cory and Karl supporting Dan we will have a great team to lead the lads into 26-27. Exciting times ahead. See you all next season cheering on the lads.”

Further updates, including new signings and the 2026/27 captaincy, will be announced in the coming weeks.

Join us for a “Meet the coaches and new players' session” on Thursday 13th August from 6.30pm onwards. The evening will start with a Q&A session and supporters are then welcome to stay and watch the senior teams training. Further details to follow.