SWINDON Storm have announced the appointment of Colin Branagh as the new head coach of their National League senior team.

Branagh, who was confirmed after meetings with club staff earlier this week, has more than 30 years of experience in the sport and started his playing career in 1983 as an offensive lineman and defensive linebacker with the Staffordshire Stampeders.

His coaching career started as a defensive assistant with the Wrekin Giants.

Progressing to head coach, Branagh oversaw several divisional championships and an unbeaten season, with coaching positions following with several Midlands teams, culminating with the head coach position of perennial powerhouse team Birmingham Bulls.

He also works as consultant and representative for the national governing body for American Football in Britain, officiating at the 2015 National Finals.

Branagh said of Swindon: “I’ve kept an eye on the team over the past four years and seen them in action several times. I’ve always been impressed by the outfit.”

Outgoing head coach and Storm founder Steve Bennett, who is standing down due to the imminent arrival of a baby in February, added: “Coach Branagh is at the top of the sport in the UK.

“His experience is second to none, and every team he works for finds success. His ethos fits with the club’s objectives.’’ Bennett will stay on as chairman and added: “We’re recruiting new players, and Colin has connections with a wealth of talented players up and down the M4.

“Now’s a great time to get involved with the club; we have a fast growing youth league, a superb under 21’s team and a National League seniors side.”

The club’s next taster session for ages 13yrs+ and 17yrs+ is on Saturday, November 14, at Swindon RFC’s Greenbridge Road base.

Registration starts at 10.30am, with no experienced needed and all equipment supplied.

All new players need is sports kit and footwear suitable for training on grass. The cost is just £5. Contact Bennett on 07883 096408.