Bringing young players through from the academy into the Bristol Bears first team remains a core pillar of Pat Lam's vision for the club and the director of rugby has appointed another former player to take charge of that process.
Club centurion Glen Townson has returned to Bristol Bears as academy transition coach, coming in to replace Jordan Crane who was promoted to defence coach in July following the departure of Omar Mouneimne who has moved to Exeter Chiefs.
Former lock Townson, 35, made 112 appearances for Bristol during six seasons in the West Country between 2012 and 2017 and brings huge experience to the role, having spent two seasons as forwards and defence coach at Championship side Ealing Trailfinders before heading up the West London club’s Academy.