Newcastle Falcons legend Mark Wilson is looking forward to a ‘fresh start' with Newcastle Falcons after returning as part of the first-team coaching staff.
The former England flanker announced his retirement from playing in February after scoring 42 tries in 237 games for Newcastle.
“Coaching was always in the back of my mind,” Wilson said.
“Retirement did come earlier than expected for me, but I knew it was the right time.
“For the last 18 months I've definitely explored coaching as an option for myself, and I'm looking forward to getting back involved with the team.”
“It's been a pleasure over the years to work with some great coaches at club and international level,” said the 32-year-old, who won 23 caps for England between 2017 and 2021.
“I think for me, in my new role, the best thing I can do is just be myself and be authentic.
“When I was playing I would always pride myself on being the hardest worker in the team, and I think I can relay this effort and enthusiasm into my coaching and onto the players.
“I feel bad for the way it ended for me as a player, but I love Newcastle Falcons and I still have a lot to offer. I also feel as though I have unfinished business with the club, so I can't wait to get back into it.
“It's been a difficult couple of years for Falcons and this feels like a fresh start for us. There will be changes in the way we play, and I'm excited to get going.”
With an eye to the future during his playing career, Wilson started coaching in Newcastle's junior academy alongside Jimmy Ponton and Mark Laycock.
As well to coaching in the Falcons Academy, Wilson further added to his coaching experience by coaching in the England Students set-up and also at nearby Ryton RFC.
“I'm lucky enough to know a lot of coaches in the game and have been meeting with them to talk it through. I've also been speaking to a lot of coaches across other sports, including basketball and swimming, and I'm excited about taking on the role. I'm just looking forward to getting started.”
Written by BENJAMIN REDWOOD
