After an extended period away from his family, a move back to the UK was too hard to turn down for Welshman Stephen Jones
This was the moment the room erupted into laughter after a joke from Tana Umaga about Newcastle(Image: Moana Pasifika)
Former Wales coach Stephen Jones has been given an amazing send-off by ex-All Black Tana Umaga ahead of his return to the United Kingdom. The former Scarlets and Wales fly-half has been working with Moana Pasifika in Super Rugby for the last two years as an assistant coach but has taken up a coaching opportunity in the Gallagher PREM.
He is now senior assistant coach at Newcastle Red Bulls, whose energy drink owners are attempting to change the north eastern club’s fortunes after years languishing near the bottom of the English league table.
Jones will be spearheading the backs and attack at Newcastle, who believe the Welsh legend can make a difference for them. Having coached at Wales, Wasps, Scarlets and more recently, Pasifika, Jones has a depth of coaching experience and knowledge to share with Alan Dickens and the backroom team.
In a touching video posted to social media, footage shows head coach Umaga providing the team and staff with a message to the departing Jones.
Stephen Jones (tackler) played against Tana Umaga (right) 20 years ago on the British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand(Image: Photo by Dean Treml/Getty Images)
“A bittersweet day today,” began Umaga. “This is Jonesy’s last day. His family moved back to Wales last Christmas. I played against Jonesy a lot of times. It’s tough to come across good people that know about a lot of stuff but Jonesy is one of those.
“You’ll always be connected to us and you’ll always be a part of Moana Pasifika. We wish you the best on the next phase you’re going to… he’s going to Newcastle, which is like… (someone shouts Invercargill and everyone laughs).”
With a clearly grateful demeanour Jones spoke about his departure: “It’s been the best experience of my life for me and my family to experience living in New Zealand, learning about Pasifika culture and the amazing people we’ve got to meet and work with – it really has been a pleasure.
“Grateful to everybody in the environment that have made Moana rugby a great place for everybody. Heads turn and look at the wonderful culture and rugby that’s been played at Moana Pasifika.”
Watch the clip below.
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Jones played a very important role in a huge year for Pasifika in 2025, where they won six games and finished just outside the top six.
Speaking ahead of his move to Newcastle, Jones said: “I’m incredibly excited to be joining Newcastle Red Bulls at such a pivotal moment in the club’s journey.
“This is a team with huge potential, a passionate fan base and an ambition that matches my own. I can’t wait to get started, and to build strong relationships with the current staff and players.”
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