Bell and Malone appointed at Ulster

The Ulster recruitment drive continues at pace with the announcement former Ulster and Ireland players Jonny Bell and Niall Malone have both been appointed as Elite Player Development Officers.

"I am really excited about this challenge and looking forward to carrying on the good work of Neil Doak," said Bell.

"Working alongside Niall Malone and Gary Longwell as well as the senior team set up will be brilliant. The Ulster Rugby Academy system has a great success record, players like Andrew Trimble, Stephen Ferris, Ryan Caldwell, Paul Marshall and young Niall O'Connor have all benefited greatly from the Academy expertise and support.

"I hope to be able to add my own experience and give those young aspiring players an insight into the reality of being a pro player. I am really grateful to Campbell College, in particular Brian Robinson and John McKinney who have supported me and encouraged me throughout the start of my teaching career and gave me fantastic experience."

Malone, like Jonny Bell, is a teacher and has spent the last 12 three seasons coaching at Instonians.

He said: "The Ulster Rugby Academy has gone from strength to strength in the last few years and I am looking forward to being part of a successful team alongside Gary, Jonny and Aaron. The players are all committed to making it with Ulster Rugby and having played at a high level myself I really want to be able to give them as much advice, support and guidance as possible."