DAN Gillespie has stepped down from his role as head coach at Drifters after four years at the club – along with physio Steph Gillespie.

Dan joined Drifters from Marlow in 2012, where he had been captain and later assistant first-team coach.

He has been an impressive head coach in his time at One Pin Lane, not just for the seniors but spending time to take sessions with the minis and juniors teams.

In his first season in 2012/13, Gillespie guided the club to a comfortable ninth place finish in Southern Counties North following promotion the previous season.

It included a stint at the top of the league after winning the opening five matches of the campaign.

The following season Drifters went one better and finished eighth in the league, before another ninth place finish in 2014/15.

Unfortunately this season has seen the club relegated into the BBO Premier League, but Gillespie’s hard work and commitment throughout has been noted. He has become a mentor to a lot of the younger players and a good friend to all.

Also leaving is physio Steph Gillespie after six years at Drifters. She has done an excellent job putting the players back together over the years.

Steve Bannister, director of rugby at Drifters, said: “Under Dan’s direction Drifters have improved in many ways. We wish him well and hope he remains in contact.

“Our club physio is also leaving us. Steph has cared for our injured players and those recovering from injury. We thank her and wish her well.”

The club is expected to announce a new head coach in due course ahead of the 2016/17 season.