EAST Essex Sabres have installed Kirk Beacham as their new head coach.

Beacham, who was a member of the club’s coaching staff last season, has replaced Lee Joseph in the leading role.

Joseph has decided to step down, but has been named as the Sabres’ new offensive co-ordinator and running backs coach.

And Beacham, who is a Sabres veteran, admitted it was a dream come true to become head coach.

Beacham said: “I’ve loved this team since my first practice with the Sabres in 1992, and I was devastated when we had to fold in 2005.

“That’s why I was so excited to be a part of the coaching team that brought the Sabres back into the league.

“And now to become head coach is an absolute dream come true.

“The Sabres are such an amazing team with a great history that I’m only too aware of, so it is an honour to be the head coach.

“But it’s not about me. It’s about the players and we have a fantastic group of players that I have absolutely no doubt will do themselves and the Sabres name proud this upcoming season.

“We just need to focus, work hard and play together as a team.”

Beacham has a vast amount of experience ahead of his first campaign in charge of the Sabres.

“I’ve had the pleasure of giving back to this great sport by coaching both the Great Britain Crusaders youth team and Team England youth, winning the Wilson Trophy against Team Scotland with Team England,” added Beacham.

“I played and coached for several other successful teams, including Farnham Knights, Essex Spartans, Kent Exiles and Maidstone Pumas.

“I enjoyed a great deal of success, not only with the national team but also my domestic teams.”