Richard Hill has revealed his ambition to one day coach in the French Top 14 after taking the reins at third-tier side Chalon-sur-Saone.
Hill, who left his post as Bristol head coach following their 35-3 home Guinness Premiership defeat to Newcastle in February, starts work at his new club on July 21.
His priority is to guide Chalon-sur-Saone to promotion to the French Pro D2 – one division below the top flight.
The 48-year-old is then eager to progress to coach in the top division of French rugby – but only once he has learned the ropes and earned the respect of his peers in the French game.
"I went across to Montauban and had a chat there, but I thought to start off in the Top 14 without having understood how the French system operates would be too high-risk," said Hill.
"This job gives me an opportunity to go across to France and understand a lot more about the French system.
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Ex-Bristol coach Hill aiming for Top 14 job
Ex-Bristol coach Hill aiming for Top 14 job
