Harlequins coaching trio awarded contract extensions

John Kingston's success in guiding Harlequins to a European Champions Cup spot last season has seen the director of rugby rewarded with a contract extension, the Premiership club announced Thursday. Harlequins also handed out contract extensions to head coach Mark Mapletoft and forwards coach Graham Rowntree. Kingston, who has been in his post since 2016 after stepping up from the head coach position, said he was delighted to be given the opportunity to carry on with his development of the squad. Last season Kingston, Mapletoft and former England assistant coach Rowntree were responsible for the historic club finishing xx in the Premiership and securing their place in this season's Champions Cup although they will not progress from the pool stage. "I'm immensely proud to have the opportunity to continue being part of a club that is evolving both on and off the field," he told the club's website. "I know the squad is in a much stronger position now than when I took over and I'm looking forward to kicking on with the next phase of the team’s development." David Ellis, Harlequins Chief Executive, said Kingston's stamp could be clearly seen in the manner in which the squad had evolved and he looked forward to further progress. Although Harlequins are ninth in the Premiership they are only seven points adrift of third-placed Wasps. "Harlequins is on an exciting journey both on and off the field -- John, Mark and Graham are a vital part of that," said Ellis. "The trio have a huge passion for the Club and they continue to evolve our style of play. "John is developing the squad gradually to be his own and his great desire to evolve a positive environment across the club will stand us in good stead, as we layout our long term vision to drive Harlequins onto the next level."