Hepher will begin work with the junior academy in the summer. He will also be Northampton Saints RFU Academy’s technical analyst. This appointment is the latest from Bedford Blues following the recent signing of prop Soane Tonga’uhia for the 2006/07 season and the transfer of many Saints players to their Division One neighbours with whom a partnership was struck up several seasons ago.

Academy director James Sinclair said: “Ali brings vital knowledge and experience to the position and his appointment completes our academy coaching and management set-up. We can now move forward with our academy plan through increasing the quality of our junior academy player development. The club is committed to producing home-grown players and Ali's role is crucial in bringing through the next generation of Saints players. I am looking forward to working him.”   

Hepher, who played in yesterday’s Powergen National Trophy final against Harlequins at Twickenham, said: “This is a great opportunity for me to work with some outstanding young players and help them develop to their full potential. I always wanted to progress into coaching after I finished playing and to have that chance back at Franklin’s Gardens is excellent. I have been impressed with the plans for the academy and I cannot wait to be a part of it.”
    
The junior academy works with 16 to 18-year-olds in the region through regular sessions at the club’s Elite Player Development Centres at Culford School, Oundle School and Moulton College. The junior academy players also attend sessions held at Franklin’s Gardens during school and college holidays.