Chinnor re-signs Barnes

CHINNOR RFC have announced the re-signing of Captain Danny Barnes, as well as the arrivals of Jamel Hamilton and Championship powerhouse Alex Dancer.

Danny Barnes – Image courtesy of Brian Tempest

Centre Alex Dancer, 26, holds a formidable frame at six foot four and 106kg. The former Cornish Pirate is no stranger to Chinnor having previously played two games on loan in 2015. DOR Matt Williams commented, “I’m delighted Alex has chosen to join us. He is one of the best ball carrying centre’s in the Championship and I’m really excited to see him team up with Danny! When losing a legend like Fats (Junior Fatialofa) to retirement and Bevon Armitage to Devon I needed to make a statement of intent. This is it! ”

Former Hartpury College and England Students star, Alex added, “I’m really happy to be joining Chinnor and linking up with some quality players in what looks to be an exciting backline. I really feel Chinnor is the right place for me to begin the next chapter of my career. I’ve had a great 4 seasons at Pirates and I hope I can bring some new ideas to the team.”

Having left Northampton Saints Academy, Jamel Hamilton went on to play an impressive 29 out of 30 league matches for Leicester Lions last season. Still at the young age of 19 Matt Williams believes Jamel has a bright future, “Jamel’s footwork and ball skills are impressive. He reminds me a lot of a young Joe Ansbro and I really believe he has a future in full time rugby. He will learn a lot from the likes of Jonny Bentley and Danny Barnes.”

Jamel added, “Following my meeting with Matt the ambition and the obvious calibre of players in the backline made my decision easy. I really enjoyed my first season in men’s rugby with the Lions but I cannot wait to keep developing as a player!”

Danny Barnes added, “After the disappointment of missing out on promotion I’m delighted Matt has asked me to lead the team again. We have unfinished business and the squad assembled this season is very exciting. We need a big preseason ready to hit Clifton with both barrels!”

SOURCE: Contributed
photograph courtesy Brian Tempest