Jermaine Coleman looking to form strong partnership with AFC Wimbledon
London Broncos head coach Jermaine Coleman says he is looking to create a strong relationship with AFC Wimbledon at Plough Lane.
The Championship side were boosted during the off-season with the confirmation of their new home, moving to the 9,000 capacity stadium in Wimbledon.
It will see the club groundshare with Football League One club AFC Wimbledon, and Coleman is looking forward to their new partnership.
Jermaine Coleman looking to inspire next generation
“It’s a great stadium, we’re very privileged to be there. It’s the right place to call home and sharing with AFC Wimbledon is brilliant for the club,” he told the club’s official website.
“We don’t simply want to be tenants. We want both clubs working together for the benefit of each other. A significant focus of the club is to continue our reputation of developing quality young players.
“We want our first-team to feature as many London-based junior players possible in the long-term. It’s a significant goal for us to achieve.”
Read: New London coach Jermaine Coleman wants to take Broncos back to Super League
London Broncos looking to establish identity at new home
Coleman was appointed Broncos’ new head coach in September 2021, making the move from London Skolars.
The club have moved into a part-time model for the 2022 season. And Coleman is relishing the prospect of leading the club in its new era.
He said: “The bulk of our squad is new, so we believed it was important to get everyone together quickly to develop good working relationships so our exciting new era could start positively.
“It’s important to understand everyone’s strengths and weaknesses. We want to build friendships more than anything too. Trusting those you play with is a huge part of team sport and being successful.
“This is a big season for London Broncos. We want to build the right foundations so we’re well placed to progress and establish a clear identity at our new home. Rugby League is a great sport and we want it to impact the lives of as many people possible in London.
“We’re under no illusions, though. The team needs to be successful on the pitch to make that happen. Positive results will get people through the turnstiles and help fulfil our goals.
“There’s pressure to perform, but we’re relishing the challenge ahead of us. We can’t wait to get going.”
London Broncos open their Championship campaign at home to Widnes on January 30.
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