FORMER Harrogate, Pocklington and York Unicorns flanker Colin Clark is relishing the chance of going solo when he takes over the reins at York St John's College RUFC.

Despite a rapid rise up the coaching ladder, Clark has spent his time in the background assisting with Wetherby, Harrogate Under-16s, North Yorkshire U15s and U16s and Yorkshire U17s.

Now, with St John's losing the services of last season's coach Andrew Jepson - the former North Yorkshire rugby development officer has headed over to ply his trade in Italy - Clark will be the top guy.

And Clark, who played in the same team as current Otley coach Peter Clegg, England doctor Terry Crystal and ex-British Lion and St John's old boy Peter Squires at Harrogate, will not find life in college and university an easy introduction.

Last season, St John's won the Yorkshire Universities Cup, finished second in North One and reached the semi-finals of the National Cup - BUSA - under the guidance of Jepson.

"Andrew was the first coach from outside to be brought in," Clark said. "The College have seen the success he generated and have now looked at bringing coaches for other teams. The rugby team have really set the standards for the rest.

"It was Andrew who, in fact, recommended me for the job before he left."

Clark will not be working alone, with former Ripon Ladies prop Philippa Whitworth assisting with the women's team and ex York RL player and current Sheffield Eagles conditioning coach Dean Thomas lending a hand with the men.

Clark, whose wife Paula used to be physio for York RL, is also looking at using his contacts in the game to help improve the squad.

"I've got several coaches lined up to help, including John Lawn, the rugby development officer," he added.

"I've been pleased with the response from both union and league. Steve Crooks from the Hull Sharks RL is also interested in coming along."

For Clark, though, the serious work will begin on Monday, September 30 when he holds his first training session in charge.

Clark, who was a pupil at the old St John's Secondary School that was situated on the College site, continued: "I didn't start coaching until about three years ago - before I was a frustrated parent who couldn't stand watching from the sidelines seeing boys who couldn't catch or pass or tackle properly.

"I started taking the courses and have rocketed up the ladder, coaching Wetherby, Harrogate Under-16s, North Yorkshire U15s and U16s and Yorkshire U17s.

"However, before I've always been the assistant, working in the background - St John's will be my first time in charge.

"As an assistant, it is easy to fall back and let someone else take the responsibility. Now I will stand or fall by my performance."

Updated: 10:59 Saturday, September 14, 2002