Quins keep hold of trio

Chief executive Ellis 'delighted' to keep hold of coaching staff

Last Updated: February 1, 2012 3:12pm

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Conor O'Shea: Steered the club to glory in the Amlin Challenge Cup last year

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Harlequins have handed new contracts to director of rugby Conor O'Shea, head coach John Kingston and skills coach Collin Osborne.

The trio will all now remain at the Twickenham Stoop until at least the end of the 2013-14 season.

O'Shea, who won 35 caps for Ireland, took over in March 2010 in the wake of the Bloodgate scandal and steered them to glory in the Amlin Challenge Cup last season.

"Our aim is to continue to develop and play the game in the way we believe it should be and to bring the success to the supporters that they deserve."
Conor O'Shea Quotes of the week

Although they did fail to qualify for the knockout stages of the Heineken Cup this year, Quins currently top the table in the Aviva Premiership and are still in Europe.

"I am delighted to have re-signed with the club," he said.

"This is an exciting time to be part of Harlequins. Our talented squad is developing in the right direction and I cannot thank the players, coaching team and support staff enough for how they have made my role so enjoyable.

"Our aim is to continue to develop and play the game in the way we believe it should be and to bring the success to the supporters that they deserve.

"It is also important to recognise the great contribution made by John and Collin over the years. Since my arrival at Quins, I've benefited from the exceptional legacy that they, along with Tony (Diprose) and others have helped to create, and we are looking forward to continuing to work together over the coming seasons."

Identifying talent

Osborne, who first joined Harlequins in 1990, is Harlequins' head of youth development and has been responsible for identifying and developing players including new England captain Chris Robshaw.

Kingston joined Harlequins in the summer of 2001 and was appointed head coach in 2008.

Quins chief executive David Ellis said: "I am delighted that Conor, John and Collin have renewed their contracts with Harlequins.

"All three provide a wealth of knowledge and experience for the club. I, like all our supporters, look forward to seeing our squad continue to grow and develop under the expert guidance of our talented coaching staff."