PETERSFIELD Rugby Club have appointed Matthew Murray as the club’s strength and conditioning coach.

Having completed 22 years of service in the Royal Navy as a physical training instructor, Murray has a wealth of experience in physical exercise.

As the custodian of the extended, refurbished and re-equipped gym, he will be focusing on strength and conditioning and diet and nutrition to help players get the most out of themselves on and off the pitch.

With his degree in sports rehabilitation, Murray will also be able to prescribe exercise therapy for injured players – speeding up recovery times and helping to prevent conditions from exacerbating.

Chairman Stu Barden said: “We are delighted that Matthew has agreed to join us in this venture. The professional approach to health and fitness will complement our new, professional gym and will provide a unique resource in the area for the benefit of Petersfield players, club members and the local community.”

As the custodian of the gym, Murray will oversee running of the facility and will operate the gym and club grounds as a private enterprise for individual personal training.