THE TEAM
Meet the Team
At Switch Rugby, we're dedicated to nurturing rugby talent and instilling a deep passion for the sport. Our mission is to empower athletes of all levels, from beginners to seasoned players, to reach their full potential on and off the field.
All of our team are available for 1:1 and small group coaching sessions, contact us for more information.
Matt Sheppard
Director
I have 23 spent years working with people of all ages through education and sport. I am a former RFU Development Officer, Coach Educator and RFU Trainer. After spending 2 years as the Assistant Director of Rugby at Hartpury College, I moved back into education and spent 12 years, initially as a teacher of Physical Education, reaching the position of Assistant Headteacher. Since 2013 I have been working with the Bristol Bears Academy as a Centre Manager and Development Coach within the Aspire and Excel Programmes.
​
I am passionate about the power of sport, particularly rugby, in developing the potential in people both on and off the field of play. This is what forms our purpose at Switch Rugby.
Lawrence Gill
Coach
Qualifications
-
RFU Level 2
-
BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching
-
MSc (Hons) Sports Psychology
-
England Rugby Mentor Award
Positions played
-
Hooker
-
Flanker
Away from the pitch
Lawrence spends his free time participating in adventure sports including surfing, ​downhill mountain biking and white water kayaking.
Vicky Mansell
Coach
Qualifications
-
RFU Level 2 Coaching Award
-
BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching and Sport Psychology
-
MSc (Hons) Sports Physical Activity and Mental Health
Positions played
Vicky plays for Dursley Ladies as a ​fly half or full back.Vicky has also played rugby league at a semi-professional level.
Away from the pitch
Vicky captains her local cricket team