Alan Tait is one of the most significant dualcode rugby internationals of the modern era, with an extensive career as both player and coach.

He began in rugby union as a centre with Kelso, before winning 27 caps for Scotland between 1987 and 1999.

He was selected for the British & Irish Lions tour in 1997, scoring a decisive try in the first Test against South Africa. At club level, he played for Edinburgh and Newcastle Falcons, winning the English Premiership with Newcastle in 1998.

In 1988, Tait switched to rugby league, where he enjoyed major success with Widnes and Leeds. Playing at full-back or centre, he won the World Club Challenge with Widnes and represented Great Britain (14 caps) and Scotland in the 13aside code.

After retiring, Tait moved into coaching, specialising in defence. He served as head coach of Newcastle Falcons (2009–2012) and has since worked extensively in Scottish rugby development. Most recently, he has coached with Southern Knights in the Super Series, supporting highperformance player progression within the Scottish pathway.

As he begins his Blaydon journey, Alan said "I have fond memories of Blaydon, having signed James Fitzpatrick and Mark Wilson whilst I was at Newcastle. It’s a great club and we can hopefully we can build a squad and coaching team that challenges for promotion”

Chairman of rugby, James Houghton said “we are delighted to be bringing in someone of Alan Tait’s calibre and experience to the club as DOR. We are aspiring to develop the club as a whole and this is a key appointment on that journey. We are looking to build on our excellent coaching team and add to our talented young squad to help us bring success to Blaydon”