PLYMOUTH Argaum head coach Dean Avery says there is a lot of positivity around the Roborough-based club as they prepare to return for pre-season training.

Argaum secured the Counties Three Devon West title last season to book a return to level eight for the 2023-24 campaign.

Argaum last played in the eighth tier of English rugby during the 2018-19 season.

“The recent AGM was very positive and the future looks promising,” said Avery.

As well as a first team and a second string, who have entered the Ellis Trophy, the club also intend to have junior teams from under-sixes to under-14s this coming year.

Argaum know it will be tough in Counties Two Devon, but they are looking forward to the challenge. They will be facing second teams from Barnstaple, Exmouth, Devonport Services and Ivybridge, as well as first teams from Torquay Athletic, Withycombe, Honiton, Exeter Saracens, South Molton, North Tawton and fellow newcomers OPMs.

“I am very glad we have got promoted,” said Avery. “I know we have a bit more travelling, but everyone is really keen.

“I think last year we only had about six or seven home fixtures all season and when we have our own bar/clubhouse and utility bills, that wasn’t enough. Hopefully, this year we will get a full list of home fixtures.

“It is going to be a challenge, but a lot of the guys have played at this level before.

“We had very good commitment on the road last year and hopefully we can maintain that.”

Argaum will begin their preparations on Tuesday when they report back for pre-season training.

“It is a bit earlier than last year,” said Avery.

“Last year everything seemed a bit crammed, but we have tried to give the guys as much time off as possible.

“The players that were here last year know what it (pre-season) is all about it, and that’s enjoyment.

“We don’t have a boot-camp pre-seasons. People want to be throwing the ball around and having a good time with their mates.

“We are going to be training away a bit from the club. We have things planned at various places, just to have a bit of fun.”

Argaum will begin life in Counties Two Devon on September 2 with a home game against Barnstaple II, who finished third last season. They will then make the long trip to South Molton the following week for their first away fixture.