'Stoke coach steps down (From Basingstoke Gazette)

'Stoke coach steps down

7:00pm Thursday 18th March 2010 in

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THE man who led Basingstoke RFC to league and cup glory last year has announced that he is to step down from his current role at the end of the season.

Chris Cook has been the club’s chairman of playing for a number of years and took over as head coach in the summer of 2008.

’Stoke had just been relegated but, under Cook, they bounced back at the first attempt, winning the London Two South title and also claiming the Hampshire Cup.

With the arrival of Jim Kelly, Cook has been able to take more of a back seat this season. He has still been heavily involved in coaching the team but has found it increasingly hard to juggle his work commitments and role at the club.

Club chairman Steve Tristram said: “Losing Chris is a big blow. He has done a great job and commands enormous respect from the players.

“He may be stepping down as chairman of playing but he is not walking out on us.

“He has agreed to help make sure the takeover goes smoothly and will still be around the club, helping out on the management side. They are tough shoes to fill but I am sure there will be someone out there who can do the job.”

Gareth Lewis, another member of ’Stoke’s coaching team, has also announced that he is to step down in the summer.