At the start of the 2019/20 season the Club welcomed a new Senior coaching set up as Jason Ford took the mantle as Head Coach ably assisted by his ‘old mucker’ Jim Pearce and we all know how that season ended! Whilst his departure will leave a hole in the great Senior management team we have since established at Penns Place, he goes with our sincere thanks and best wishes for the future.

Jim said;
"Leaving Petersfield was not an easy decision but is the right one for me.

During my time at the club I have been made to feel most welcome by the Chairman, President, Committee, Club Manager and Players alike. New coaches always brings new vibrancy and I know there may have been scepticism from some initially but I think that by Christmas we had them on board too.

Our aim of giving Petersfield a style of play that became a 'brand' was recognised through the league. This was mainly due to the support of all the coaches, support team and buy in from the players. Some of the rugby displayed was exceptional and the games against Havant, Alton, Bognor and Sandown were executed to really high standards. I would take games like that every weekend rather than some of the other games where complacency can set in. That said, what an amazing season it was and I can’t thank EVERYONE enough. Promotion as league winners is always pleasing, it’s just a shame we didn’t get the chance to see if we could have achieved the 1000 points.

Massive massive thank yous to everyone for their time, effort, and support of me and for believing in what we were trying to deliver.

As a coach, I can 'get by' at Level 8/9 but Team Management and Player Welfare is more my domain. When I retired from playing due to injury it was this area that I enjoyed most, doing all the minimal things that others don’t really like (heaven knows why). Over the years I tried my best at this and similar to when playing I have wanted to do it to the highest level I could. I have previously interviewed for higher league clubs with the response always being the same: 'We think you'd be really good at it, BUT....' This time the 'but' didn’t come and I'm really happy to be going to Worthing to ply my trade at Level 4. It will be a big step up with Worthing being a semi-professional outfit and having just appointed a new Head Coach, coaching team, and support staff which I will be part of. I am nervous but confident I can deliver what they require to make things tick and keep pressure off the players and coaching team.

All that said, I will be back to come see you all. As a Trustee of Rugby Against Cancer, we hope to hold our next Family Fun Day at Penns Place which I will most definitely attend and know that all your support will make it a huge success. When time permits, I will also be along to watch and see the progress being made both on and off the pitch.

Once again, thanks you to everyone. I wish you continued success when allowed back on the paddock but for now I hope you and those close to you remain safe and well."

Pearcey x

Good Luck Mr Pearce, we will be watching how it goes with interest and look forward to hosting the Rugby Against Cancer events in the next few years – an opportunity for you to return and get the beers in!