FULL-back Chris Pennell says enthusiastic new coaches Rory Duncan and Neil Doak have sparked “some life” into Worcester Warriors.

The duo arrived at Sixways this summer with Duncan taking on the role of head coach and Doak starting his new job as attack and backs coach.

Warriors have been gradually ramping up their preparations for the 2018-19 campaign since pre-season got under way last month.

And Pennell said the introduction of Duncan and Doak to the club’s coaching team had made a big difference in training.

“It is really good to be back as this is always a very positive time of year,” said the 31-year-old.

“There is a lot of excitement about what is coming up and as always the guys are working incredibly hard.

“But we have got a whole new coaching team again.

“The guys have brought a huge amount of energy so it is a really exciting prospect for this season.

“Most change is good change, isn’t it?

“When you have got people coming in with a fresh set of eyes it can really spark some life into the place.”

South African Duncan, 40, joins Warriors after leading Cheetahs to third position in Conference A of the Pro 14.

Irishman Doak, 46, makes the move after ending his 23-year association with Ulster last summer.

“First and foremost they all seem to be top people,” Pennell continued.

“That is key because if you have got all the guys buying into who they are before they even bring any content in that’s half the job done.

“They have settled in incredibly well too.

“There is clearly a huge amount of knowledge there for us to tap into and I think they are really excited about the challenge as well.

“The energy they are bringing is huge and we are trying to match it as players.”

Director of rugby Alan Solomons has also made 11 summer signings that form part of a 45-man squad for the upcoming campaign.

Pennell said the new faces had added a “buzz” around the club as they build up to their season opener at home to Wasps on Saturday, September 1.

“We have recruited incredibly well,” said Pennell who is celebrating his testimonial season at Warriors.

“When you look across the board there is strength in depth in each position and it’s that competition which is what we need.

“We have been close over the years to having that but I genuinely feel that this is the year for me that really stands out where you almost can’t pick your starting 15 whereas in years gone by it was fairly obviously.”

Versatile back Scott van Breda is set to battle it out with Pennell for the number 15 jersey after joining from Jersey Reds.

“Scott has been really impressive and then we have got a lot of youngsters coming through that will get a lot of exposure this year at the top level,” Pennell added.

“I have got no doubts they will shine again. We are set up to go with the rugby.

“With the squad we have got and the energy from the coaches all the bits I feel are in place.

“We know we are more than capable of beating anyone on our day.

“The key for us this season is going to be consistency and then you never know where we will end up. It could be a dream year.”