NORTHWICH Rugby Club are laying solid foundations for the 2026/27 season with strong player retention and fresh signings.
The club confirmed that the majority of last season's players have re-signed despite offers from elsewhere.
However, there have been some departures, with long-serving players Craig Fortune and Sam Naylor announcing their retirements.
Club officials said both remain committed to Northwich and will continue supporting the minis and juniors section.
Fresh faces have also joined the squad under new head coach Cameron Nield, who brings experience from playing with Newcastle Red Bulls, Sale Sharks, Glasgow Warriors, Edinburgh Rugby and Worcester Warriors.
The club have also welcomed Briony Slinger as sports rehabilitator for the season ahead.
Slinger, who will soon graduate from Keele University with a degree in rehabilitation and exercise science, returns to Northwich to support the club that first inspired her rugby journey.
After captaining her university team and developing her expertise in sports rehabilitation, she joins Blacks with a passion for player welfare, performance, and helping players stay at their best both on and off the pitch.
New signings include scrum-half Max Goulter, tighthead prop Bobi-Jayms Smith, and versatile front-rower Jandré van Zyl.
Joseph Stewart, a dynamic lock and blindside flanker, also joins from Napier Pirates Rugby & Sport.
Rory Liejdekkers, who has led the first XV for three seasons, has re-signed.
He confirmed that several promising young players are now committed to the club’s renewed push for promotion in the Regional 2 North West Division.
Richard Dale has been named club captain for the season.
Dale first joined Northwich in 1995 and continues to be a guiding presence for both senior and junior squads.
The retained squad blends experienced campaigners and young talent.
Officials said the men's set-up will comprise three interchangeable squads for the season.
Northwich director of rugby John Brotherton said: "It's important for us to retain the core of last season's group.
"We've got some experienced lads who know what it takes at this level, alongside a number of younger players who are continuing to develop and push standards.
"Keeping that continuity gives us a solid foundation, and we'll continue to strengthen in key areas over the summer to ensure we've got the depth and competition needed across the squad."
Pre-season begins on July 14, followed by a captain's run and team social barbecue on Saturday, July 25.
A family fun day and player registration will take place the following day.
Warm-up fixtures include a home match against Didsbury on Saturday, August 22, which will coincide with the club’s Piña Colada Festival, and a friendly against Crewe and Nantwich on Thursday, August 27.
The league season kicks off with a home game against Manchester on Saturday, September 12.
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