Latest news from Sam...(extract from Cambridge News)

Dick Matthews will bring a wealth of experience to Shelford after being appointed the club's new backs coach for the forthcoming season.

The Cambridge University trainer will combine his work with the Light Blues with regular involvement at the Davey Field. Shelford coach Sam Tovo approached Matthews a couple of months ago and is delighted he has decided to assist the National League 2S side.

"It's very important to develop some of the young players coming through our youth system and the new guys coming into the club," said Tovo. "It was important to get someone in who has experience and is a specialist backs coach. Dick is very experienced and he will give us another voice in the dressing room."

Matthews replaces Tom Dann, who will remain on the playing staff as he completes a teaching qualification, in the role. Matthews is preparing for a busy period as he has also agreed to help the Swedish squad in next month's IRB Women's World Cup, which takes place in England.

The coach is set to jet out to Gothenburg to run the rule over the squad ahead of the tournament, before guiding them through the 12-team tournament. "The Swedish thing doesn't really clash as our season doesn't start until September and we knew his involvement with the university was very important to him," said Tovo. "When he can come down, he'll be great."