Hampson can keep on playing and coaching

CRAIG Hampson has come to an agreement that will allow him to continue playing with Ealing Trailfinders while also remaining as head coach of Chinnor in the Championship.

- JON NEWCOMBE

Alongside director of rugby Nick Easter, below, 33-year-old Hampson led. Chinnor to the 2023/24 National 1 title and promotion to the Championship for the first time in the club's history.

He also maintained his position as Ealing's first-choice scrum-half and is under contract at Vallis Way for another year.

However, a potential clash of interests has been avoided with Ealing saying Hampson can continue with his off-field role at their now rivals, with certain provisos.

"Both clubs have agreed it is fine for me to carry on coaching, obviously Ealing being my primary job. I have to be available for selection against them (Chinnor) it's unlikely I would be macma picked, I'd imagine - but I can't coach against Ealing that week. It's fine every other week, just not that week," the former Wasps player revealed.