Ellis Signs Three-year Contract

Gloucester's defence coach Dave Ellis gave the Kingsholm club a boost in the build-up to the Heineken Cup after signing a new three-year contract.

The 47 year-old, who has marshalled the Gloucester defence for the last three seasons, is delighted to continue progressing the defensive skills and strategy with the Gloucester players.

Commenting on www.gloucesterrugbyclub.com Ellis, who is also the defence coach for the French national side, said: "It's given me great pleasure to know I'm going to be here for another three seasons. I spoke with Bernard Laporte last week, and having seen the set-up here himself last season, he gave me his whole hearted backing."

Ellis' job as defence coach works alongside director of rugby Nigel Melville, coach Dean Ryan, and conditioning and skills coach Mike Anthony.

"The aim of this club is to be the best in the Zurich Premiership, and with that comes the best defence. Being the best, means year-in-year-out, and not just for one season.

"We are all really up for the new season, last year was a disappointment, compared to the previous season, but we're 100 per cent focussed on making the 2004/05 season a success for Gloucester Rugby Club."

Gloucester are pooled with Cardiff Blues, Ulster and Stade Francais Paris in. Pool 6. Their opening match in the Heineken Cup sees them face Stade on Saturday, October 23 (kick-off 16:00 local time)