Friday 24 June 2016 10:39, UK
London Irish head coach Tom Coventry has resigned his position with the club by mutual agreement to return home to New Zealand for family reasons.
Coventry joined the Exiles in July last year after a successful career coaching in Super Rugby with the Chiefs and internationally with Samoa.
However, he oversaw a difficult campaign in 2015/16 which saw London Irish relegated from the Aviva Premiership after winning only four league matches.
London Irish chief executive Bob Casey said: "Having undertaken a review of the past season and taken time to consider its implications, and given his family situation, our discussions with Tom have resulted in agreement that it is in his best interests to return to New Zealand.
"On behalf of the board and all associated with London Irish we thank him for his efforts over the past season and wish him and his family well for the future."
Coventry believes there is a good framework in place at the club and has backed them to win promotion from the Championship next season.
He said: "London Irish is in a good place to bounce immediately back into the top tier of English rugby.
"The club has recruited well with a sound balance of experience and youth supported by an excellent academy programme. I wish the club all the best in their future direction and drive for Premiership status."
