Statement: Newcastle Red Bulls add new coach

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Newcastle Red Bulls have confirmed the return of Darren Fearn, with the former Doncaster Knights head coach joining the club as transition coach ahead of the new season.

A former Newcastle prop who also played for Sale Sharks and Bedford Blues, Fearn returns to the club after building an impressive coaching CV. Alongside his work with Doncaster, he has coached England Students, Newcastle University and Northumbria University.

The appointment is part of Newcastle’s efforts to strengthen the pathway between academy rugby and the senior squad.

Academy and pathways director John Fletcher said: “Our senior academy squad is considerably bigger next season so it’s important we put in place the appropriate level of support and expertise, and in Darren we are certainly getting someone who will offer that.

“He’s coming here as a transition coach to work with the senior academy and associate academy players, supporting the confirmation phase coaches in transitioning players into the senior squad.”

Fletcher also highlighted Fearn’s strong links to the region and his success at Doncaster, adding: “All the feedback we’ve had on him has been outstanding, and he’ll be a great addition here with his character and coaching ability.”

Fearn admitted he was delighted to be returning to the club where his professional career began.

“I loved my time as a player at Newcastle and it’s great to be coming back,” he said.

“My kids were born in Newcastle and the club means a lot to me. From a sentimental point of view as well as a professional one it’s a really exciting move.”