Former Tongan international Fe’ao Vunipola will be the new head coach of Marlow next season after agreeing to replace Richard Kinsey.
The 46-year-old returns to Riverwoods for a second spell in charge having previously led the club between 2010-12, where he helped them achieve a top four finish in the South West 1 East League.
Vunipola, who is the father of England internationals Mako and Billy, left Marlow in 2012 in order to coach his country’s under-20 side and the club are hopeful this experience will help the club’s Colts progress into the senior ranks.
Marlow director of rugby, James McKillop said: “I am delighted that Fe’ao has chosen to return to UK coaching at Riverwoods. “Fe’ao loves this Club and I know he is committed to developing both our experienced and younger players.”
“In a World Cup season it is testament that we will enjoy the insights of not only a former participant but the parent of two current England international players,” added McKillop.
“Fe’ao will kick-off pre-season training this week and we look forward to welcoming new players to Riverwoods.”
Vunipola captained his country and won 32 caps in a career which saw him play a part in both the 1995 and 1999 Rugby World Cups.
The new coach’s main aim will be to improve upon a seventh place finish in the Southern Counties North division, where their wretched away form undermined their season.
Marlow also thanked previous head coach Kinsey, who had taken over mid-way through the 2012-13 season but was unable to prevent relegation that year.
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