Mark Wilson to leave Newcastle Falcons
The Cumbrian was a Falcons legend as a player, making 237 appearances and being capped 23 times by England.
Retiring from playing in February of last year but returning six months later to join the coaching team, Wilson explained his decision to step away from professional rugby.
He said: “I’ve been given an opportunity away from rugby which I want to take, and which will allow me to upskill myself in a few different areas.
“I want to commit properly to that and see what happens with it, but I’ve enjoyed my year on the Falcons’ coaching team and would like to thank everybody involved with the club for their support.
“It’s been great to get an insight the world of professional rugby coaching, and it’s certainly something I’ll entertain for the future. I’ve been involved in the professional rugby environment for nigh-on 20 years now, and I just want to take a break and try something else.
“I’m going to step away for a little while now and throw myself into this opportunity that I’ve got away from the game, but I’ve still got a massive love for Newcastle Falcons and I hope the lads go on to become really successful in the years to come.”
Newcastle Falcons’ chairman of rugby Matt Thompson said: “We respect Mark’s decision to move away from professional rugby, and thank him for everything he has done for the club.
“It’s sad to see a club great departing but we understand he has things going on outside of rugby, and we wish him every success with that.
“He knows he and his family will always be welcome here, and I’m sure Mark will remain a passionate supporter of the Falcons long into the future.”
