Hull Pirates have confirmed Jason Hewitt has been appointed as the club’s Head Coach.

Hewitt takes over from Dominic Osman who will remain with the Pirates as a player. Osman will also be responsible for the day-to-day running of the business side of the team and organisation.

The Pirates have also announced the signing of defender Luke Boothroyd.

The 29-year-old previously iced for Hull Stingrays in the Elite League before joining Manchester Phoenix in 2008.

Pirates’ owner Shane Smith said: “By achieving our targets so early in the season, and getting off to the start that we did, the organisation didn’t want to rest on its laurels.

“There was a hunger and desire for more, this was also met with fans expectations to perform and produce. The price we paid was an unexpected pressure on a relatively small workforce that just wasn’t sustainable.

“Fortunately the opportunity arose to split the organisation into two strands, commercial and on-ice product.

“Given Dominic’s recent success in gaining a Masters Degree in Business it was a natural move, and one Dom himself had asked for.

“Jason was approached about taking over the coaching side and, with his wealth of experience, agreed.

“Both Dom and Jason have my full support to develop personally and professionally within their new roles. It will be exciting to see where they take us as the Pirates continue to evolve.”