In a break from the norm, the head coaches have been announced on block for the upcoming tournaments through the 2025-26 season.
As per the press release, “The rest of the coaching staff for each team are still being finalised and will be announced in due course.”
I would not read too much into that statement, as there are numerous potential reasons for those positions not being confirmed. Those could include the new head coaches seeking out staff outside of the program and based overseas.
The appointments are as follows:
Great Britain Men Head Coach: Pete Russell
Great Britain Women Head Coach: Beth Hanrahan
Great Britain U20 Men Head Coach: Martin Grubb
Great Britain U18 Men Head Coach: Jamie Elson
Great Britain U18 Women Head Coach: Sean Alderson
Great Britain Futures (U16 Boys/Girls) Head Coaches: Euan King & Reg Wilcox
Beth Hanrahan and Jamie Elson are the two newcomers to the role of head coach.
Hanrahan served as an assistant coach for GB Women at last season’s World Championship in Dumfries, her first role outside of North America. She helped the team to a bronze medal and, with NCAA experience, brings a vastly different dynamic to the women’s program than ever before.
Jamie Elson has held GB age-group roles since 2020. He has previously held coaching roles in Cardiff and Bristol, while also taking on more senior roles with the latter. The Cardiff native has a strong video-analysis background, which is a crucial element in today’s game.
Per the press release, Grant King, COO & Interim Performance Director, said: “This group of coaches brings a fantastic blend of continuity and fresh energy.”
“With Pete Russell leading a connected coaching team and with transparent, committee-based selection held to account by our Performance Committee, we’re focused on standards, depth and a clear identity across every level of the GB pathway.”
“We wish each of the coaches all the very best for the season ahead and would like to thank the outgoing coaches for the time, commitment and dedication to the GB programme.”
“We are still finalising each teams’ full coaching staff and announcements will follow in due course.”
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