GARY Pearce admits leading Hull Ionians to National League One is one of the proudest achievements of his career.
Ionians sealed the National Two North title in style by smashing Caldy 50-7 at Brantingham Park.
And Pearce, who has enjoyed plenty of success in international rugby union and league, said this success was up there with anything he has accomplished.
"I am extremely proud," Pearce told the Mail.
"To get into the third tier of English rugby is a remarkable achievement.
"I am so proud of the players. They played like champions all season so it's a fitting finish for them.
"We got off to a good start with two tries in the first 10 minutes, and all the credit goes to my players who battle through everything together.
"We knew it would be nervous because everyone has been tapping ourselves on the shoulder, but we hadn't won anything."
With their biggest title won, Pearce has set his sights on taking Ionians even further, and backs his players to make the step up with the minimum of fuss.
"It's an exciting time ahead for this club now. We have a good close-knit group of players and the backroom staff have made it easy for me, which makes it easy for the players," he said.
"Everyone has put their mark on getting us to where we are now. We know it's going to be exciting and difficult next season because there are a lot of very good sides in the third tier of English rugby.
"It's the first time this area has had a team in this level of rugby and hopefully people will get behind us next season. With their support maybe we can push on a bit further.
"Finances will be an issue to go forward. It's semi-professional, and it's going to be a tough ask but the club are preparing for that.
"It was a great day for sport in the region with Hull City and North Ferriby winning promotions, we didn't want to be the odd one out."
