Newport Gwent Dragons have confirmed that they have agreed to release Forwards Coach Leigh Jones from his contract with the region to take up a post with the Hong Kong Rugby Union.
Leigh will leave the Dragons in the New Year to become Coach Development Manager for Hong Kong Rugby although the timing of his departure is yet to be confirmed.
“Leigh has been offered a great opportunity and we are happy to support him in his decision to leave the region,” said Dragons Rugby Manager Robert Beale. “We recognise that releasing Leigh leaves a requirement to recruit a new forwards coach mid-season, but as we did with the departure of David Rees, we will take the time necessary to ensure that we have the right man for the job.
“Although Leigh’s exact departure date has not been determined, we will start making preparations for a smooth transition for our players and the rest of the coaching team.
“We remain open-minded as to the options available both short-term and for next season.”
Jones has been at the Dragons since the inception of regional rugby, having coached Newport RFC to a premiership title the previous season and was also part of the Welsh coaching team alongside Graham Henry.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with both Newport and the Dragons,” said Jones “I have been offered an opportunity to further my career and am grateful to the region for their understanding in allowing me to pursue this option.
“I am still very much a Dragon and remain totally focussed on our goals of successful campaigns in both the Magners League and the Heineken Cup this season.
“I would like to thank the players and coaching staff who have been so supportive of me during my time at Rodney Parade and I hope to leave the region in a strong position in all competitions.”
Dragons Chief Executive and Head Coach have also paid tribute to the departing Forwards Coach.
“Everyone at the Dragons would like to thank Leigh for the energy and hard work he has put into the region,” said Dragons Chief Executive Gethin Jenkins. “He has been a key member of our coaching team, bringing a great deal of experience to the organisation. Although we are sorry to see him leave us, we wish him well with this new opportunity.”
Dragons Head Coach Paul Turner added, “Leigh goes with the region’s best wishes. He and I go back a long way in rugby and he has been a close friend both on and off the field. He is a quality coach and I’m sure he will be a major success in his Hong Kong venture. He will certainly be missed around the Dragons environment and I personally wish him well for the future.”
