A CURRENT Newcastle Red Bulls star is the new head coach of Northwich Rugby Union Club where it is felt he will leave ‘lasting impact’.
Manchester-born flanker Cameron Neild has taken over the reins at Blacks, who are facing a relegation play-off contest later this month.
‘Cammers’, who has also had spells with Sale Sharks, Glasgow Warriors, Edinburgh Rugby and Worcester Warriors, already has a wealth of coaching experience with a proven record of player development.
John "Beefy" Brotherton, the Northwich director of rugby, said: " We're so pleased ‘Cammers’ has come on board.
“After meeting with him it was clear we share the same values on developing people and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
“The icing on the cake was he believes in our vision for the club and I'm sure he'll be a big asset for us and together we can have a lasting impact on rugby in the area."
Neild has committed to ‘two to three’ years in the role and is aiming to return the Northwich first XV to Level 5 rugby in that time.
Andy Naylor, Northwich chairman, said: “Cameron had the choice of a number of clubs and chose Northwich, a club he sees run by its members to promote rugby at all levels.
“There is no formality or hierarchy at our club, and he saw the passion from Beefy, Yan, Joel and others.
“Cameron has stated his commitment to build and help develop all players from age four to seniors.”
Neild is renowned as an attritional player who gets through a lot of the grunt work, allowing and inspiring those around him to shine.
He has a philosophy built on community connections and strengthening club culture and club chiefs feel that the environment he will create will be the perfect fit for Northwich.
"I'm passionate about developing players, supporting coaches, and I believe here at Northwich we will create something special together,” said Neild, who played for England at under 16s, 18s and 20s levels.
“It was the club’s vision for the future which impressed me the most.
“The opportunity to be involved was too good to miss.”
Despite Blacks achieving a five-point victory at West Park on Saturday, they finished the league campaign in 10th position.
Teams in 10th and 11th (West Park) face a play-off to determine relegation and this fixture will be played at Moss Farm on April 25.
