Rugby:The IRFU has announced the appointment of Michael Kearney as team manager after Paul McNaughton stepped down from the role.
The Dunboyne native, who has filled the same role with Ireland Under-20s since 2009, will join up with the squad next week in Limerick as preparations begin for the Six Nations.
“I am obviously delighted to take up the position as well as honoured to be involved with the team,” said Kearney today. “My focus now is to get up to speed as soon as possible and give whatever support is necessary to Declan, the coaches and players as we head into the championship.
“The role is multifaceted, but I am looking forward to the challenge. The transition is somewhat easier having had the experience of working with the IRFU, who have an incredibly professional staff working around the team, who will I am sure will help me adjust quickly.”
Ireland coach Declan Kidney thanks McNaughton “for his outstanding services to the team” and said he was “delighted to welcome Michael”.
He added: “The role is an important part of how the team functions and it’s excellent to have someone of his background to bring his organisational skills to the management group.”
