NEWPORT Titans have announced the appointment of Scott Bessant and Lewis Culverwell as head coaches ahead of the 2014 Wales Conference Premier rugby league season.

Bessant is a former Titans player with an established reputation within rugby league in Wales.

Having first played the game at Torfaen Tigers, his real progression came following his switch to Newport Titans where he developed into one of the most physical fullbacks in the game in Wales.

International recognition soon followed and he made his debut for Wales Dragonhearts in 2008, scoring a try against Scotland.

Further A caps followed in 2009 and 2010, including man of the match performances against Ireland and England.

In rugby union he also represented Newport Gwent Dragons at under-21 level and the Gwent district side.

On his appointment, Bessant said: “I felt that when I was asked to coach the Titans it was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down. I played with Lewis for the Titans for a few seasons and I’m sure we’ll make a great team.”

Culverwell, like Bessant, represented the Titans with great distinction, being part of the team that narrowly lost the Welsh Conference final to Bridgend in 2007.

“I’m really pleased to be involved with the Titans again,” he said. “There have been some big changes in the club in the off season and I am confident that we can return the club to the level of success it enjoyed when I was a player.”

Newport Titans’ chairman Rob Dodgson said: “I’m delighted that we have been able to appoint two such experienced and well-respected former players to the coaching team.”

Pre-season training for Newport Titans has just begun and anyone interested in playing for or assisting the club in any capacity should contact the chairman on 07570 792 045 or at newport.titans@outlook.com