Martin Haag joined Bristol as a player-coach, registered for the 2003-2004 season, after playing for Penzance and being awarded two England caps whilst at B**h.  His first outing was in the farcical UK Fijians preseason game (where some of the ‘Fijians' had apparently been picked solely on the basis that they knew where Fiji was) and made his league debut against Penzance.  Although he had intended to concentrate on the coaching role he gave sterling service during the season when Ollie Kohn was injured and eventually he played in Bristol's successful Twickenham Powergen Shield final against Waterloo.  Typically, he gave his medal to the injured Kohn.

He was then able to devote his attention to coaching and played his part in Bristol's successful promotion drive from ND1 to the Premiership, one year ahead of the club's original schedule.  His contribution was recognised when he was granted a new three year contract early in 2005 that should have taken him up until 2008.  At the time director Nigel Pomphrey said: "I am delighted Martin has signed. Rugby is all about stability. If the coaching team remains stable then it sends out the right message."

Then, on June 15^th 2007, came the rather terse announcement from the club that Martin's contract had been terminated.  Subsequently, in a Western Daily Press article Richard Hill, recently named as Rugby World's coach of the season, said that the decision to part company with Martin was the hardest decision he had had to take in rugby.  Inevitably, the wording of the statement from the club and additional comments from the chief executive has led to speculation over the exact nature of the events surrounding Martin's departure.  What causes particular disquiet is that a man who coached an ageing pack of so-called journeymen to outperform younger and more highly regarded forwards and formed the foundation on which Bristol's best ever league finish was based has seemingly been replaced by a man who led a team that just escaped relegation.  It seems a curious way to maintain stability.

Now, of course, comes the challenge of a Heineken Cup campaign, the demands of another season in the Premiership and the impact of the World Cup.  In the past, sides that have ‘over performed' in a season and qualified for the Heineken Cup have struggled in the league in the next season.  Perhaps it is the additional demands on the playing squad or perhaps simply that playing performance reverts to the norm (as statisticians would say).  In any event it is going to be difficult season for Bristol to maintain or improve on last season's record.  Other sides have significantly increased their playing strengths whilst Bristol has already announced or already employed their additions.  Combined with apparent internal problems and the coming season looks to be a difficult one for Bristol.

As for Martin Haag his efforts and commitment on behalf of Bristol are greatly appreciated by the supporters and I am sure he will soon find a role with another club and, as is often the way with Bristol alumni, come back to haunt us.  Good luck and thanks.

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