Adam Jones signs player-coach contract with Harlequins
Thursday 22 December 2016 14:39, UK
Adam Jones has signed a new Harlequins contract which combines playing duties with a new coaching role.
The former Wales and Lions prop joined Quins ahead of the 2015/6 season after retiring from international rugby and has since made 22 appearances for the Premiership club.
The 35-year-old's new deal will see him take up a position as assistant to forwards coach Graham Rowntree on director of rugby John Kingston's backroom staff.
"Coaching is a route I have always wanted to go down so this is an opportunity for me to work with two of the best, said Jones, a veteran of three Lions tours who won four Six Nations titles.
"I'd be stupid to not take this chance to develop and up-skill myself with a forward pack that is only going to get better. I'm looking forward to the rest of the season and doing my best to ensure we have a great year."
Kingston said: "Adam has had an enormous impact on the club in his brief time at Harlequins.
"That influence has been both on field, where he continues to do a huge job when called upon, and also off the pitch, where he has set tremendously high standards of professionalism which are providing an inspirational example to others.
"His encouragement to players has manifested itself in assisting the coaching needs of individuals and groups. It is for this reason that, as well as remaining in the playing squad, both Graham Rowntree and I believe it is a perfect opportunity to put him into the role of Assistant Forwards Coach, to help Graham where needed.
"I have no doubt that Adam will continue to prove a terrific asset to Harlequins in his dual role."
