Delaney reinforces squad with ambitious young trio
May
The Green and Whites will enter the 2011-12 campaign backed up by young reinforcements thanks to the re-signing of 23-year back-rower Jonny Baird and 20-year-old scrum half Finlay Barnham.
Both players featured in the 2010-11 campaign, taking chances to impress Director of Rugby Glenn Delaney in both league and cup outings.
Edinburgh born Baird, who joined the Meadow Lane outfit for the 2008-09 season, featured in 15 games over the last season.
Barnham, who originates from Norfolk, made progress under USA Eagle Tim Usasz after moving to Nottingham from the Leicester Tigers Academy.
Both players have agreed terms for new one year deals under DoR Delaney, who himself recently reached a new three year deal with Nottingham.
Scotsman Baird said: “I’m very happy to have signed a new contract, I’ve really enjoyed my last year here and I’m already looking forward to next season.
“The club can only go in one direction from here and I want to be part of that success.”
The Green and Whites have also completed the signing of new back row player Rupert Cooper who joins from Stourbridge.
23-year-old Cooper, who has also spent time with Durbanville, South Africa, makes the switch after three seasons with the Black Country side.
Speaking ahead of the move, he said: “I’m massively pleased to be signing for Nottingham and making the step up to the Championship.
“I’ve heard lots of great things about Nottingham and Glenn Delaney, I know the move presents a brilliant opportunity for my progression as a player.
“The competition for places will be intense and the level of the opposition will also be very high, but it’s definitely a very big chance for me as a player to shine.”
