FORMER RGC head coach Mark Jones has been given the opportunity to coach at the upcoming Rugby World Cup.

The former Welsh international will join the Namibia coaching staff under Phil Davies, who is another that played a significant role in the Gogs’ incredible rise to prominence since their inception.

Jones will be working closely with the Namibia backs both prior and during the competition, which will take place in Japan from September 20 until November 2.

The ex-Llanelli standout made a lasting impression at Stadiwm Zip World in Colwyn Bay during his three years at the helm, helping RGC establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the Indigo Group Premiership in addition to securing a historic WRU National Cup for the first time in the club’s history.

He stepped down from the position following RGC’s final day victory over runners-up Cardiff on home soil.

Jones will be joined on the Namibia coaching staff by fellow ex-Wales players Dale McIntosh and Wayne Proctor, and he was part of the national set-up in 2012-13 when they won the Six Nations title.

Speaking to Wales Online, Jones said: “Phil asked me to come on board after I left RGC and it was all agreed a few weeks ago.

“It’s a big honour to be asked. This kind of opportunity doesn’t come about very often and I’m looking forward to the challenge.

“Every coach wants to coach at the highest level and it doesn’t get any bigger than the World Cup.

"It's a chance for me to have a look at something different and to keep challenging myself.

“It will expose me to things I haven’t experienced before in terms of getting the best out of individuals I don’t know that well.

“You can do as many coaching clinics as you want, but working with players day to day is when you find out how good you are.”