HEAD coach Ian Bletcher has already started making plans for next season after Kidderminster Carolians ended the season on a high with a 34-15 victory over Cheltenham North.

KCs stretched their unbeaten run to four games with a dominant display which secured eighth place in the Midlands Two West (South).

That run of three wins and a draw was enough to end any relegation worries and coincided with Bletcher’s return to the club.

The head coach has already held a meeting with his squad this week to discuss a programme where former players and coaches at the club would mentor the squad.

Bletcher is also keen for his players to fully recharge their batteries before preparations for the 2012-13 campaign commences this summer.

He said: “We’ve had a players’ meeting this week, so plans for next season are already taking shape.

“The club has a lot of former players and coaches and we are planning to start a mentoring programme.

“This will help them learn how to maximise their fitness without picking up injuries.

“It’s important to remember that rugby is not a 12-month sport. We’re going to make sure the players have a five or six week complete break.

“Some people think if they work really hard then they’ll come back stronger but there is an extra danger of injury if they come back with too much muscle.

“We’ve got people like Layton Wilkinson, who is immense for us, but we have to temper his enthusiasm to make sure he remains fit and it’s the same for Andy McLellan and Stu Such.”

Before their rousing end, KCs had struggled for form but Bletcher, who previously had led the club to league success in his first spell, believes the squad should aim much higher.

“I think the core squad is very good and hopefully we will attract one or two more players as well,” added the coach.

“Contrary to common belief, not many rugby clubs bars are busy beyond 6pm on a Saturday but the players were still there at 11pm.

“If we can maintain that spirit and togetherness and get the best out of the players next season then should be looking at a top-two or three finish.”

On Saturday, KCs conceded the first try but responded well to end the campaign with a win at Cheltenham North.

Mark James, James Whitehouse, Layton Wilkinson, McLellan and Nick Martin all touched down.

McLellan kicked three conversions and a penalty.