Newcastle Red Bulls sign another one of Diamond's geezers

It speaks volumes about Steve Diamond’s popularity with players he has coached that yet another of his former charges has agreed to join Newcastle Red Bulls.

Hot on the heels of Fergus Lee-Warner’s signing, another player who played under Diamond at Worcester, Italian international hooker Hame Faiva, has put pen to paper.

The 31-year-old has been searching for a new club since being released by Bath at the end of last season and admits the chance to work with Diamond again was a significant factor in his decision to move to the North East.

“It was a pleasure working with Dimes during our time together at Worcester Warriors,” said Faiva, who has signed a one-year deal.

“He is a straightforward and honest individual – qualities I greatly appreciate.

“What he did for us as players was truly inspiring, especially during that challenging period. He consistently supported both the players and staff throughout the entire journey, and it will be great to work with him again.”

Capped 10 times by the Azzurri, Faiva played Under-20s rugby for New Zealand and made his professional breakthrough with Waikato, going on to play Super Rugby for the Blues and Hurricanes.

His six seasons with Benetton saw him selected by Italy, for whom he played during the Rugby World Cup 2023. His club career has taken him to Worcester Warriors and Bath, where he has spent the past two seasons.

Director of rugby Steve Diamond, who also signed Faiva for Worcester, said: “Hame is an experienced campaigner who gives us valuable know-how in the front row.

“He’s a good pro who knows what it’s all about, and he’ll give us the quality and depth that we need to kick on at this level.

“He was left high and dry by what happened while we were at Worcester, but he’s a great addition to our group.”