FORMER Sale Sharks coach Jim Mallinder has been named by UK Sport in the Elite coach scheme.

He is joined by fellow National Academy coach Nigel Redman.

The multi sport initiative identifies nine coaches this year from the likes of swimming, diving, sailing, judo, as well as rugby, singled out for fast track specialist development.

UK Sport, the country’s high-performance sports organisation, identified the nine coaches in their 2005 intake as being some of the most exciting coaching talent the country has on offer.

The scheme involves a challenging three-year plan on a fast track to coaching excellence.

National Academy coaches Mallinder and Redman, who coached the England Under 21s last season, will experience tailor-made programmes, allowing them to further develop their technical skills by working with other top cross-sport coaches.

Prior to coaching the England U21s, Mallinder took charge of the Churchill Cup squad which toured the USA and Canada during the summer.

They will also enhance their leadership skills, working in high-performance environments not just in sport but also business, industry and the arts.

Commenting on his selection for the UK Sport project, Jim Mallinder said: "I’m really pleased to be invited to be part of this three year initiative.

"I look forward to learning a lot from the cross over with other coaches in other sports."