Darlington Mowden Park is delighted to confirm its Men's 1st XV coaching team for the 2026/27 National League 2 North campaign, with an experienced group in place to lead the club into an exciting new chapter.

The coaching team brings together proven leaders from across the game, combining National League experience, elite player development, university rugby success and a deep understanding of what it means to represent Mowden.

Heading up the programme is Director of Rugby Neil Young, alongside Head Coach Daz Fearn, Forwards Coach Gareth Nesbit, Backs Coach Richie Young and Skills Coach John Newton.

Neil Young – Director of Rugby

Following his appointment as Director of Rugby earlier this summer, Neil Young will oversee the club's rugby programme from the minis and juniors through to the senior men's teams, while continuing to play an active role within the 1st XV coaching environment.

A former Mowden player, Neil was part of the side that secured promotion to National Two before spending a decade transforming his hometown club, Redcar RFC, as player-coach, senior chairman and club chairman. His return to Darlington Mowden Park has already brought renewed energy and a clear vision focused on long-term player development and building a genuine one-club culture.

Darren "Daz" Fearn – Head Coach
Recently appointed as Head Coach, Darren Fearn arrives as part of the club's exciting long-term partnership with Newcastle Red Bulls.

Widely regarded as one of the region's leading rugby coaches, Daz combines his role at Darlington Mowden Park with his responsibilities within the Newcastle Red Bulls pathway, helping strengthen player development across the North East.

Having previously represented Mowden as a player, his return marks an exciting new era for the club, bringing a modern coaching philosophy, elite standards and a clear vision for how the team will play. His appointment also creates an invaluable pathway for talented young players to develop within the region while representing Darlington Mowden Park.

Gareth Nesbit – Forwards Coach
Joining the club this season, Nes brings one of the most impressive coaching CVs in community rugby.

His experience includes coaching roles with the Barbarians, Durham University, England Students and National League rugby. During his time at Durham University he helped deliver two BUCS Super Rugby titles while playing a significant role in developing players including Guy Pepper, Adam Brocklebank, Josh Basham and Jamie Adamson.

With England Students he also helped secure the side's first victory on French soil in 17 years, further highlighting his ability to develop high-performing forward packs and successful environments.

Richie Young – Backs Coach
Another familiar face back in Mowden colours, Richie Young combines a wealth of coaching experience with a genuine passion for developing attacking rugby.

A former Mowden player alongside his brother Neil, Richie enjoyed significant success during his time coaching at Redcar before returning to Darlington last season. Known for demanding high standards while encouraging players to express themselves, Richie will continue leading the club's backs and attacking development.

John Newton – Skills Coach
Few names are more synonymous with Darlington Mowden Park than John "Newts" Newton.

Having played a pivotal role in some of the club's most successful years, Newts continues to bring a vast amount of experience to the coaching setup. His expertise in attacking structure, individual skill development and game understanding has helped shape countless players throughout his time at the club and remains a key part of the environment being built for the future.

Building Something Special

Together, the four-man coaching team provides the perfect blend of continuity, fresh ideas and elite experience.

With pre-season now underway, the focus is firmly on building a competitive squad capable of challenging throughout the 2026/27 National League 2 North season while continuing to strengthen the player pathway throughout the club.

There is a genuine excitement around Mowden Park, and with this coaching team leading the way, the foundations are firmly in place for an exciting future.