THE Cornish All Blacks have announced Wadebridge Camels forward Gary Gynn as their eighth summer signing.
Gynn, 34, was on the same rugby scholarship at Colstons Collegiate back in the early 2000s with current CABs player/coach Ryan Westren and former Polson Bridge and Cornwall full-back Keiron Lewitt, and Westren is delighted with the acquisition of the former England Under 16s international.
He said: “He’s been at Wadebridge for over a decade but part of him feels that he hasn’t fulfilled his potential.
“This move should have happened a long time ago, but I’m very happy that it finally has and we’re looking forward to getting a good couple of years out of him in the twilight of his career.
“He brings a huge amount of experience, but the biggest thing is the leadership. From a playing point of view he’s got a great set of skills. He’s got great hands, is a good decision maker and is a big bloke, which is something we’ve lacked. It’s been pretty evident to a lot of people that we’ve lacked that big ball carrier for a couple of years, so hopefully he’ll fit the bill for us.
“He’s already made a big impact for us in training and has really stood out with his leadership.”
Gynn who captained Wadebridge for a number of years, including to two Cornwall Cup titles, hopes that that his experience will come in handy.
He said: “I’ve known Ryan (Westren) since schoolboy rugby. I watched a couple of their games last year and I like what I saw. I’m also good friends with Adam Collings and I’m just excited for another challenge and to get out of my comfort zone after 14 years at the Camels.
“The boys here are a good set of lads and are pretty energetic so I hope to use my experience to guide them a bit. I’m happy to play anywhere in the second or back row.”
Gynn admits it was tough to leave.
He said: “It was a hard decision to leave Wadebridge but I just wanted something to get the excitement going again. Everyone has been really welcoming. I can’t wait for the season ahead.”