Pendle have announce that they have a new head coach at the helm – and Getty Schinkel comes to Pendle from his native South Africa, where for many years he successfully played Level 1 rugby.

This new chapter for Phoenix comes as long-standing head coach Graham Ratcliffe retires from coaching to take on an active role behind the scenes.

On moving to England, Schinkel played for Burnley, Fylde, Halifax and Sale Jets.

The experienced coach has also recently worked as head coach at Manchester Rugby so Pendle are very happy to bring Schinkel home to Lancashire to begin a new era at Pendle.

Schinkel has been working hard with the Phoenix squad for the past five weeks and with his high-intensity, hard-hitting style of coaching, a fresh and exciting new ethos is being witnessed by all those involved.

Pendle Phoenix prides itself on its family atmosphere and is keen to welcome new players.

If you are an experienced player looking to play again or are new to the game, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Everyone is welcome at Pendle and no experience is necessary.

Training sessions are Monday and Thursday evenings between 6.45pm and 8pm at Hodge House, Regent Street, Nelson, BB9 8LJ.