Former Connacht coach Pat Lam has signed a new four-year contract at Bristol.
The New Zealander takes on the new title of director of rugby with the Bears after leading them to a ninth place finish in the English top-flight this season.
But he insists that title change won't stop him from having a hands-on approach at the training ground.
"Although my title changes to director of rugby, my passion and enjoyment for hands on coaching remains stronger than ever. I will be in a tracksuit on the field as long as I can still walk!"
Lam says he's now on a journey to land the Premiership title, having missed out on a Champions Cup place by just four-points.
💬 Lam: “I’m proud to commit my future to Bristol and it was an easy decision to make. We’ve set out a plan to bring a @premrugby trophy to @ashtongatestad and we’re at the start of that journey.” pic.twitter.com/9OOoPG1Htx
— Bristol Bears (@BristolBears) May 22, 2019
"I’m proud to commit my future to Bristol and it was an easy decision to make.
"We’ve set out a plan to bring a Premiership trophy to Ashton Gate and we’re at the start of that journey.
"It’s been an incredible two years so far in the city. It’s amazing what can be achieved when you have a clear vision and you approach challenges with strong belief and a positive mindset."
"We have absolute confidence that we will achieve our team goals as Steve [Lansdown], Jon [Lansdown] and Chris [Booy] continue to drive that vision.
"We are striving for the Bristol Bears to be world class at everything we do, so it’s my responsibility to ensure every department fulfils that expectation.
"I want Bristolians to be fiercely proud of their rugby club and of the players who represent them. Our mission is to produce excellent rugby players and even better people off the field.
"That’s why our commitment to our community, to developing homegrown talent and to working relentlessly in pursuit of our goals remains stronger than ever.”
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