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Stoma Helpline We’re here 365 days a year, 9am – 10pm: 0800 328 4257
The new Team Colostomy UK Rugby League season kicks off in March so we thought it would be a good time to catch up with Alan Bacon, the new Head Coach of our open age team.
For anyone meeting you for the first time, can you tell us a bit about your rugby league background and what attracted you to getting involved with Team Colostomy UK?
I have been involved in rugby league for many years. I played for Greenwich Admirals, where we won the London League in our first season, before going on to set up the Kent Ravens. I was fortunate to play representative rugby league for London and the South East and for the South of England and later moved into coaching across a range of teams including representative sides and community clubs.
After stepping away from rugby for a few years to focus on running my own business, I was introduced to Colostomy UK’s rugby team by Giovanni, who I knew from my Kent Ravens days. He explained that the team was looking for a few players with rugby league experience to support what was then a new and developing squad. I joined for Colostomy UK’s second ever match and was immediately drawn to the spirit of the team and what it represents. Although injury has limited how much I have been able to play, I was delighted to join the wheelchair team as a player in 2024, which has opened up a new way to stay involved on the pitch.
As a team that never trains together and only comes together on match days, what is your approach to coaching in a set up like ours?
My priority is to make every player feel valued and part of something special. Because we do not train together, match days become even more important. I want them to feel well organised, welcoming and professional. That means putting simple structure in place from warm ups to match preparation, and creating time for players to connect, support each other and enjoy being part of the group. It is about building confidence and team spirit every time we come together.
On match day, what can players expect from you on the sidelines?
My coaching style is mainly tactical but always supportive. I like to work with players as individuals, helping them understand their role and play to their strengths. You will not see flying teacups in the changing rooms. Instead, I aim to create a calm and positive environment where players feel encouraged, respected and ready to give their best.
What are you most looking forward to this season?
I am most looking forward to helping people who may never have imagined themselves playing rugby to get involved. Seeing players grow in confidence, become part of the squad, and then run out onto a pitch in full kit, in a stadium and in front of a crowd is incredibly special. That sense of achievement and belonging is what Team Colostomy UK is all about, and I am excited to be part of it this season.
Fancy coming along to a game. See our updated fixture list here
