Alan Dickens Appointed Head Coach of Newcastle Red Bulls

Former senior coach Alan Dickens has been appointed as the new head coach of Newcastle Red Bulls. This announcement follows the unexpected decision by Steve Diamond to step down as the director of rugby. Dickens, who has been with the club since July 2024, will assume his new role immediately, marking a significant transition for the team.

The changes at Newcastle Red Bulls extend beyond the head coach position. Starting from November 1, Neil McIlroy will take charge as the sporting general manager, overseeing all rugby management activities. McIlroy brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as sporting director at the Catalan Dragons and general manager of ASM Clermont.

In addition, John Fletcher will join the club as the academy and pathways director on December 1. His focus will be on nurturing local talent and developing players into world-class athletes. This move signifies the club’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its academy program and ensuring a robust development pathway for players.

The Newcastle Red Bulls released a statement highlighting their dedication to fostering local rugby talent and providing an exceptional fan experience. The club expressed gratitude to Steve Diamond for his contributions during his tenure, acknowledging his role during this important transition.

Alan Dickens, at 49 years old, has an impressive coaching background, having spent over a decade at Northampton Saints in various coaching roles after his playing career with the club. His experience with teams such as the Leicester Tigers and the England Under-20s positions him well for this next step.

The club also announced that Jonny Petrie will assume the role of managing director effective October 6, tasked with overseeing the long-term off-field success of the Newcastle Red Bulls. Petrie brings substantial experience from his previous positions as CEO of Ulster Rugby and managing director of Edinburgh Rugby.

Fans can look forward to the upcoming Gallagher PREM fixture where Northampton Saints will face Newcastle Red Bulls at Kingston Park on October 17, with kickoff scheduled for 19:45. The match promises to be an exciting encounter as the Red Bulls continue to reshape their management team and strategy.