Following last week's announcement of our long-term partnership with Newcastle Red Bulls, Darlington Mowden Park is delighted to officially welcome Darren "Daz" Fearn as the club's new Head Coach.

While Daz's appointment formed part of the wider partnership announcement, this marks the opportunity to properly introduce the man who will lead the DMP rugby programme into an exciting new chapter.

A highly respected coach with an outstanding reputation across the game, Daz returns to Darlington Mowden Park having previously spent three seasons at the club as a player. His appointment not only strengthens the relationship with Newcastle Red Bulls but also brings a wealth of experience in developing players and building high-performance environments.

Originally from Scarborough, Daz studied Sports Development & Coaching at Northumbria University before beginning his professional playing career with Newcastle Falcons. During an impressive career in the front row, he also represented Sale Sharks, Bedford Blues and Saracens, featuring in the Championship play-off final with Bedford before eventually hanging up his boots.

Since moving into coaching, Daz has established himself as one of the most respected coaches in the English game. He guided Northumbria University, to their highest-ever BUCS Super Rugby finish before taking over as Director of Rugby at Newcastle University, where he has continued to develop some of the country's brightest young talent.

Alongside his university coaching roles, Daz has served as Head Coach of England Students, leading the side to a number of memorable achievements, including their first victory over France on French soil for 17 years. His current role as Transition Coach with Newcastle Red Bulls places him at the heart of one of the region's most exciting player development programmes, helping bridge the gap between academy rugby and the senior game.

His arrival at Darlington Mowden Park creates a natural alignment between both organisations, strengthening the pathway for emerging talent while driving standards throughout the club.

Speaking after his appointment, Darren said:
"Returning to Mowden is an important part of my role as Transition Coach with Newcastle Red Bulls, helping to strengthen the player pathway and align how we develop players and play the game. Having spent three years at Mowden as a player, it's great to be back and see some familiar faces."

"There's a lot of work to do, and that's what excites us. The squad already has a core group of players and, together with Nes, Richie, Newts and Neil as Director of Rugby, we're looking forward to building an environment where players compete, learn and develop. We'll continue to add the right people to the group while building a clear identity for Darlington Mowden Park."

"We know there are areas of our game that need to improve, and that work starts now. We'll take it one game at a time, commit to getting better every day and build a team that the club and the North East can identify with through its effort and the way it plays the game."

Director of Rugby Neil Young believes Daz's appointment is a significant step forward for the club.
"Daz is someone I've known and respected for a long time. He has an outstanding reputation for developing players, demanding high standards and creating environments where people genuinely improve. Those are qualities that fit perfectly with where we want to take Darlington Mowden Park."

"His experience across professional rugby, university rugby and the England Students programme speaks for itself, but just as importantly he understands this club, its values and what it means to represent Mowden. Working alongside Newcastle Red Bulls also gives us an incredible opportunity to strengthen our player pathway and ensure our players are exposed to the highest possible standards every single week."

With pre-season now underway and preparations for the 2026/27 campaign gathering momentum, everyone at Darlington Mowden Park is excited to welcome Daz back to the club and looks forward to the journey ahead under his leadership.

Welcome home, Daz.

Darren has signed up for next season, have you? 2026/27 Mowden Memberships are available to purchase online by clicking here.