Departing Doak hopes to make future return to Ulster

Matt Mackey / Press Eye.
Published 4th May 2017

Departing Ulster coach Neil Doak says he hopes to return to the Kingspan one day.

The 44 year old is leaving his native province after spending 10 years in various coaching roles, and racking up 76 appearances as a player after making his debut in 1995.

It comes as Les Kiss rings out changes in his backroom, with Allen Clarke also headed for the exit as he takes up a new role with Ospreys.

Doak will take charge at Queens University in Belfast, but made it clear he did not want to leave Ulster.

"I'm obviously disappointed I'm going. It's out of my control and I'd love to be staying around. I've been here ten years and I've put a lot into this."

His final match with the province is an interpro clash with Leinster at the Kingspan. However, it's a game of little consequence as Ulster are almost certain to finish in 5th.

"My highs here would be to have helped develop some of the players that have gone on to play international rugby and for the British and Irish lions. I'm delighted to be a small part of their journey."

"I never really saw it as a job. It was a way of life for me."

Doak also outlined his intention to return to the Kingspan at some point in his future.

"My heart's here and it has been here for a long period. I've no regrets and I've been very fortunate from a playing and a coaching point of view. I've been to a World Cup and I've coached my home province. This sport has given me an unbelievable lifestyle."