The Army Masters are proud to announce Sergeant Carl Adams (PARA) as the new Head Coach and Major Robert Mitchell (RLC) as the new Director of Rugby for the 2024/25 season.
With their season kicking off in October, the team is gearing up for a strong campaign, leading up to the Inter Service Championship in May. Their focus is firmly set on reclaiming the title, and under the leadership of Maj Mitchell and Sgt Adams, the Masters are ready to rise to the challenge.
Sgt Carl Adams has enjoyed a diverse and accomplished rugby career as a player, coach, and referee. As a player, he competed for renowned clubs like Leicester Tigers and Coventry, while also captaining the Infantry XV and representing the Army Development squad, demonstrating his high level of skill and commitment. His coaching experience is equally impressive, having mentored teams in both civilian and military settings, including Old Laurentians and Southam in civilian rugby, as well as the RLC Women’s team and the Army Masters Forwards/Defence unit in the military. Additionally, Sgt Adams has distinguished himself as a National League 1 and 2 referee, showcasing his comprehensive understanding of the game across multiple facets.
He commented; “Stepping up from the forwards and defence coach last season to Head Coach this season is an honour and a challenge. I am looking forward to leading the team, generating momentum in the fixtures and carrying this through into the Inter Service Championship. We fully understand the task in front of us and our sole aim is to regain the Inter Service title. We will have a few surprises install for both the Vultures and the Mariners. The Army Masters will be ready.”
Maj Rob Mitchell has had an illustrious rugby career, marked by significant achievements at various levels of the sport. He represented the Royal Logistic Corps (RLC) 1st XV, demonstrating his skill and leadership on the field. As a key player for 9 Regiment RLC, he contributed to their victory in the prestigious Army Premiership Cup competition, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest levels of military rugby. His leadership qualities were further recognized when he captained the Defence Academy RFC, guiding his team with distinction. In addition, Major Mitchell has earned 4 caps for the Army Masters, solidifying his status as a respected and accomplished figure in military rugby.
He commented; “As a player transitioning into Rugby retirement, I am hugely honoured to take on the role of Masters Director of Rugby. I cannot overstate how excited I am for the season ahead. The fixture list we have created for this season will drive standards of Army Masters Rugby, and enable some fantastic engagement opportunities, particularly competing alongside our Army Under 23 club mates over Remembrance weekend at Cardiff Arms Park. That aside, the management and support team are completely focussed on ensuring our squad is fully prepared for the RN Mariners and the RAF Vultures; I know the Navy wont rest on their laurels from last season and the RAF will clearly want revenge at Kingsholm under Friday night lights: the Army Masters will be ready. “
All images – Alligin Photography © Army Rugby Union
