Shelford and coaching staff axed

By Jason Harris (filed 26/6/03_
June 26 2003

Saracens have announced that Head Coach Wayne Shelford and his assistants Darrell Shelford, Tim Wright and Pat Fox have left the club.

In an brief announcement on Thursday, Saracens Chief Executive Mark Sinderberry said

"We are today confirming that following a review of the season and the team's performance we are now seeking a new coaching set up for next season. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Wayne Shelford, Darrell Shelford, Tim Wright and Pat Fox for their efforts."

Speculation surrounding the sacking of Shelford and his team had been rife for several weeks following another disappointing season from the Men in Black.

The statement also said that an annoucement about a new coaching set-up will be made in due course, which presumably leaves player-coach Rod Kafer in charge until a new Head Coach is found.

Rumours already circulating say that ACT Brumbies Academy boss Laurie Fisher could well be on his way to Saracens. Fisher, already in the UK coaching the successful Australia under-21 World Cup squad could once again link up with former Brumbies colleagues Kafer and Sinderberry in time for the new season.