Bryan Redpath will see the pre-season matches as an opportunity to show the fans how far they have come since their disappointing end to last season and how they have developed as a squad over the summer. Fans will also be able to see new signings such as Nicky Robinson and Tom Voyce in action for the first time.
Andy Hazell has fond memories of his first debut at Kingsholm and when asked if he ever imagined that he would be celebrating his testimonial year with the first Club he joined he replied:
"It's something when you first make your debut, you never think that far ahead but it has come around really quick. It seems like only three or four years ago when I ran out on the famous Kingsholm pitch for the first time. The time as gone so fast and it's another chapter but one I'm looking forward to.
And when asked how much Gloucester Rugby has changed during his ten years at the club he says;
"It's changed massively, more off the field for me with the stadium and how it has developed. It has been a pretty good experience to have been involved in and to have been here long enough to have been through all the changes. It's phenomenal to see how far the ground has come since I first started playing here".
He also insists that although he has achieved his ten year milestone at the club he still feels that he has plenty more to give both the club and supporters;
"I keep myself fit, keep on top of my game, keep working at my game and see what happens. I only see myself here, my heart is here and I want to keep going as long as I can"
Like Andy Hazell, Lee Mears is also celebrating a testimonial having spent his ten years at rival Club Bath Rugby.
Lee Mears talks of his first memory of Kingsholm, "12 years ago when I was just leaving school my first trial game was actually for Gloucester on this pitch. I have some fond memories but I also have some memories of the Gloucester supporters getting stuck into me. Bit of everything really".
When asked about how this weekend's match compares to previous pre-season fixture at Bath Lee replies:
"We aren't used to have pre-season games at home because of our ground but I've played in Edinburgh, I've played across in France and Bath have good travelling support. To have one on your doorstep and have such a big local derby match in pre-season, I think the supporters will come in their droves".
He also talks about why this match will generate interest between both sets of fans;
"There are a couple of things. Firstly both teams are parading relatively new squads and a few new players. I think a lot of people would like to see how they're settling in. But also there is the rivalry of the two great teams"
When asked how this match came about Lee replied;
"We've played with and against each other which is part of how we managed to put the game on. We're pretty good mates on and off the field. Obviously he spends his life bashing me on the field and I'm sure I'll try and get near him on Saturday. We're just good friends really".
Don't miss your chance to watch two great players lead their teams out at Kingsholm this Saturday (3pm) in what will be a great day of rugby.
Tickets can be purchase by calling the ticket hotline on 0871 871 8781 option 2 or by clicking here
Suggested ticket donations:
Gold £17, Silver: Adult £15 Concession £13 and Junior £11. Bronze and East Stand: Adult £13, Concession £11 and Junior £9. Shed and West Terrace: Adults £10, Concession £8 and Junior £5.
Gloucester Rugby Season ticket holders are reminded that this match is not included within the package but a £2 discount will be available.
