 Neil Kelly was released by Widnes Vikings in July 2004 |
Neil Kelly, the former coach of Widnes rugby league side, has switched codes to join the coaching staff at Ulster. The 42-year-old is due in Belfast on Tuesday to sign a contract which will see him assist Mark McCall until the end of the season.
Kelly was Super League Coach of the Year in 2002 after taking his newly-promoted side to the brink of the play-offs at the first attempt.
He also had four years in charge of the Welsh rugby league side.
"We have been on the look-out for someone of Neil's expertise and quality since the start of the season and are delighted to have someone of his pedigree join us at Ulster Rugby," said head coach Mark McCall.
Kelly is the first league coach to join an Irish province in a full-time role
One of Kelly's priorities will be to improve Ulster's recent poor defensive form.
Last season's Celtic Cup winners are currently one from the bottom of the Celtic League having lost four of their six games, three of those at home.
''Obviously Ravenhill has been a fortress for Ulster and we need to create a winning streak again,'' said Kelly.
''I watched the game agaisnt the Dragons and after a coule of defeats the players looked a little bit nervous.''
Meanwhile, Ulster are reported to be poised to announce the signing of a southern hemisphere international flanker.
MMIX
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
