Rugby:Mike Ruddock has been appointed the Ireland under-20 coach, replacing high performance manager Allen Clarke whose sole focus will now be the development of underage players.
Clarke won the under-20s Six Nations last season, but the IRFU is claiming a “significant coup” in the capture of Ruddock, who has “an impressive coaching background at both club and international level,” including stints with Bective Rangers, Swansea, Leinster, Newport Gwent Dragons and Wales from 2004.
He was a Grand Slam winner with the Welsh in 2005 before moving to English club side Worcester until this summer.
Ruddock’s wife is from Dublin and their sons, Ciaran and Rhys, have both represented the under-20s. In fact, the latter was captain of Clarke’s side last year and has since played for the Declan Kidney's senior side, first against New Zealand Maoris and then when winning a representative cap against Australia in June.
"The importance of this age grade level is vital and the chance to work in Irish Rugby again was one I did not want to pass up on," said Ruddock today. "Allen has made some real strides with the team, with their championship success last season and runners up spot the previous year a testament to this.
“I am looking forward to working very closely with him to ensure there is continuity with what I want to bring to the team and most importantly keeping the under-20 team as the focal point for the identification pathway for future professional players."
The outgoing Clarke, added: "It has been a fantastic honour to coach the Ireland Under 20's for the past two seasons. However it was only ever a bridging arrangement and I am really looking forward to supporting and working with Mike.
“His wealth of experience and success at senior international level will further add to what is a very important age grade in Irish Rugby.”
Ruddock will take up his role with the IRFU at the end of the month.