Former England U20 scrum half Blake Boyland and ex-Clifton hooker Tom Hatch are the latest signings to be confirmed by Weston-super-Mare Rugby Club as they prepare for their return to Regional 1 Tribute Ale South West in September.
Boyland, who says he can also play in any of the back positions, was with National League Two South West side Old Redcliffians last season, having previously played for Clifton, Dings Crusaders and Guernsey.
Taunton-born Boyland, who played junior rugby with Clifton, was selected for England U18 back in 2018 after impressive performances when he turned out for Bristol United. While combating a series of minor injuries, he progressed to the Bristol Bears Academy.
He made his debut for England U20s, and his talents saw him excel in England Sevens World Series trips to Malaga, where he helped the team claim a bronze medal before further series stops in Seville, Vancouver, Los Angeles, Singapore, Toulouse, and Twickenham.
The twenty-five-year-old says that one of his most memorable games was playing for Bath at the Recreation Ground against Bristol Bears in October 2022 – despite 22-nil defeat.
Hatch, 31, started his junior rugby with the Vectis Rugby Club on the Isle of Wight before his senior playing career saw him play for Worthing, Brighton Blues, Lewes, the Isle of Wight and Brighton University.
He made his debut for Clifton in September 2023 and went on to make 32 appearances for them in both the National 1 League and the National 2 South West League.
“There is an exciting season ahead for Weston, having been promoted as unbeaten champions. It is great to be back with former Clifton players Marcus Nel and Alex Howman,” said Hatch, who can also play across the back row of the pack.
“I want to add value as a player, so I will be looking to play a lot of minutes and nail down a regular spot in the starting line-up. There is a great culture here at the Weston club, so I think that the play-offs, at least, are a real possibility.”
