CHARD Rugby Club's head coach has stepped down after two years in charge.

Trae Gosling, who took over in a player-coach role in June 2022, says he is leaving to “focus on family matters”.

His decision to leave follows the club's likely relegation from the Regional 2 Tribute South West, unless geographical changes to the leagues occur.

In a club statement published on Tuesday, April 23, Gosling said: “The last two years have been extremely rewarding for me at the club, which only makes it harder to say that this year has been a roller coaster ride for my family and I, and for that reason I have decided the best thing to do is to step away from my role as head coach for the coming season, and focus on my family matters.

“The club have shown me in abundance why and how it is such a remarkable place to play rugby.

“Of course, it's a shame as our goal and target has not yet been reached, so the fact I have decided to pull my time short only adds to the frustration knowing that I have unfinished business with the lads and future of the players at Chard RFC.

“I would not say my time feels over at Chard and it certainly isn't a 'goodbye' situation, more of a ‘I'll be back’.

“I'd like to thank the club, its supporters and its players for all of its support and commitment in my time with them and wish them all the success in the future, which I know is on the horizon.”

Chard & Ilminster News: Trae Gosling.Trae Gosling.

Chairman Billy Ellens said: “I would like to thank Trae for his time with Chard Rugby Club as head coach.

“Trae has been instrumental in bringing through the new generation of young players, he has certainly been a key part of this club for the past two years.

“We would like to thank him for all is hard work and dedication and we wish him and his family all the best for the future, I know this wasn't an easy decision to make.

“We look forward to seeing you and your family back at the club soon.”

In other news from the club, the Chard Ladies team finished their season on a high with a 33-10 win against Chippenham, securing them fifth place in the Women's NC 3 South West (Central) table.

Georgia Smillie, who scored two tries, was joined on the scoresheet by Emily Lancaster, Georgie Waite and Charlie Taylor. Olivia Barnes kicked four conversions.