Unless things go "drastically wrong", former Glasgow Warrior Calum Forrester has laced up his boots for the last time.

The new Ayr coach made the tough decision to move into coaching after undergoing his fifth knee surgery at just 27-years-old - and he believes the new challenge is more than enough to fulfil his appetite for competition.

"I have been involved in coaching at different levels for years now", said the former Scotland sevens international, "but this is my first time as the head coach of a full senior club.

"It would take a lot of injuries among the squad for me to be convinced to pull on the jersey again. I achieved a lot in my career and now it's time to concentrate on coaching. I learnt so much about coaching from Kenny [Murray] and Peter [Laverie]. They always had the respect of players and I will follow their example."

The club have made a number of additions during the off-season, the most high profile being former Edinburgh second row Robert McAlpine, as well as prop Fraser Watts from Currie. The back row will be significantly bolstered by the additions of Scotland club internationalist Will Bordill - who has signed a training contract with Glasgow Warriors - from Stirling County, Blair Macpherson from Hillhead Jordanhill and Marr's Ben Johnson. Utility back Gavin Lowe also joins after a year at Glasgow Hawks.

"It's an exciting time . There are a lot of new faces who have impressed but Ben has been a revelation during pre-season", said the former Warrior. "He is exceptionally quick and at just 19 I don't see why he shouldn't be challenging for age-grade honours this year. His potential is incredible."

The Millbrae side kick off their campaign with a visit from Gala on Saturday. "Last year, we were just one win away from winning the league," added Forrester. "The players know how important every single point is."