Hill joins Newport as backs coach
May 22, 2002

Harlequins backs coach Richard Hill has left the Zurich Premiership club to join Newport's coaching set-up.

Hill has agreed a three-year deal with the Black & Ambers and will work alongside head coach Leigh Jones.

Hill's departure from Quins, where he has spent the past two seasons, means he is reunited with his former Ebbw Vale coaching colleague, Jones.

His appointment completes Newport's coaching search following Ian McIntosh's departure.

McIntosh, who led Newport to second place in the Welsh-Scottish League this term, is returning to South Africa following a one-year stint at Rodney Parade.

"I would like to thank Richard for his commitment and for all the hard work he has put in over the last two years at the club," said Mark Evans, NEC Harlequins Chief Executive. "Naturally, we are disappointed to see him leave but fully appreciate his reasons for doing so. On behalf of everyone at Quins, I would like to wish him every success in his future career."

"I have thoroughly enjoyed the past two seasons at NEC Harlequins," said Hill. "In my role as coach of the backs, it has not only been a pleasure to work with the players, but I have derived great satisfaction from watching them improve through the years. This has been as a result of their hard work and perseverance during, at times, difficult circumstances."

"I have developed a good relationship both on and off the field with Mark Evans, John Kingston and the whole management team and I shall, in many ways, miss them
and the supporters who have begun to generate such a terrific atmosphere at the club."

"Despite knowing how hard everyone at Quins is working towards success, I have decided to make a move to Newport RFC to team up once again with Leigh Jones, who I coached alongside during my spell with Ebbw Vale RFC, and who is also a very good friend. The other factor is that Wales, of course, is just over the bridge from my home in Bath."

"I shall be leaving behind a lot of friends and fond memories and wish Quins the very best of fortunes for the future."

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