Italia RL president hails Napolitano

Italian Rugby League President Orazio D’Arro has paid tribute to Carlo Napolitano, who has stood down from the national role after leading the Azzurri in their inaugural World Cup.

The Italians shocked England 15-14 on the eve of the tournament, and went on to beat Wales and draw with Scotland in their World Cup campaign, before bowing out with defeat to Tonga.

Napolitano confirmed last week that he would be stepping down.

D’Arro said: “Rarely in life do you meet people of the calibre of Carlo Napolitano.

“From 2008 he has dedicated a large portion of his life to the development of rugby league in Italy, often without due reward.

“During this period Carlo has made a major contribution to the on-field success but most importantly he has provided support and contribution to the establishment of the constitution and operational structures of FIRL.

“The passion and pride he showed as a player from 2000 echoed throughout his contributions. It is with mixed emotions that I accept his resignation. Carlo will be hard to replace but I cannot  deny him the opportunity to move forward with his life.”

As a result of Napolitano’s departure, FIRL are re-structuring their technical staff and are looking to fill a number of positions including that of a Technical Director, who will be responsible for managing and supervising all Italian representative teams and provide leadership, advice and direct support to the FIRL coaching staff and management.

They are also looking for head coaches for their elite, domestic, emerging, womens, Under 18 and Under 16s teams.