Newcastle Red Bulls rugby team have parted company with director of rugby Steve Diamond — after just one match of the season — amid major changes to its management structure.
Neil McIlroy will join Newcastle Red Bulls as “Sporting General Manager” on November 1, while Alan Dickens, senior coach of Newcastle Red Bulls since 2024, will take on the role of Head Coach, reporting directly to McIlroy.
Scotland Rugby head coach Gregor Townsend will become a part-time adviser on “strategy and philosophy” for the Newcastle club.
“Newcastle Red Bulls are making several changes to the management structure to reflect the club’s deep and lasting commitment to developing local rugby talent through a strengthened academy program, delivering a world class fan experience and achieving sporting excellence for years to come,” said the club.
“From November 1st, rugby operations of the club will be led by Neil McIlroy, who will join the Newcastle Red Bulls as Sporting General Manager, responsible for overseeing all aspects of rugby within the club.
“McIlroy brings a strong track record of driving competitive excellence, most recently as General Manager at Catalan Dragons and ASM Clermont.
“John Fletcher, the current Head of Pathways at SRU and previous Head of England Under 18s will join Newcastle Red Bulls as Academy and Pathways Director from 1stDecember.
“The development of local talent into world class players is a priority for the club and this position will see Fletcher focus on building a high-performing academy team and driving player and coach development across the region.
“The club is also pleased to announce that Jonny Petrie will take up the position of Managing Director from October 6th.
“Petrie will be responsible for the long-term off-field success of the Newcastle Red Bulls, bringing a wealth of experience from his time as CEO of Ulster Rugby and as Managing Director of Edinburgh Rugby.”