Rugby:Ulster coach Brian McLaughlin will step aside from his duties with the senior side at the end of the season but they stopped short of naming his replacement.
McLaughlin will continue with the province on a permanent contract.as a senior coach with the Academy.
“While I may not be staying on as head coach I know that my coaching future lies with Ulster Rugby,” said McLaughlin today. “We all know the crucial role our overseas players play in our success, but it is imperative we foster local talent and my new role within the Academy will ensure that I continue to play a leading role in the development of both Ulster and Irish Rugby.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my two and a half seasons at the helm and take huge pride in the success we’ve had, however, with a Heineken Cup quarter-final and a push for a Pro 12 play-off spot to come I’m very much focused on leading Ulster for the remainder of this season and am totally committed to achieving our goals of progression in both competitions.”
His replacement, however, remains a mystery.
Former Ireland and USA coach Eddie O’Sullivan has been mooted as a candidate, while one-time Italy coach John Kirwan tonight made his interest in the position clear but insisted he had not been contacded by the province.
The New Zealander told Newstalk's Off the Ballhe would "definitely" welcome a call from Ravenhill.
The strong South African influence in the Ulster squad has also led to speculation that a coach from that part of the wolrd may be appointed.
McLaughlin, who took a career break from his teaching position at the Royal Belfast Academical Institute to take the Ulster job in June 2009, will work with former Ireland international Gary Longwell in the Academy next season.
"The option of the Academy role offered Brian long-term stability and the security to leave his teaching job in order to coach full time." said director of rugby David Humphreys today. "We are aiming to make Ulster Rugby a leading force in European rugby and to do that we need to develop our Academy system and elite player pathway. Brian has a proven record and a genuine interest in this area and this role offers him an opportunity to shape the future of Ulster Rugby. Our youngsters will benefit enormously from his experience.
"There's no doubting what Brian has achieved in his tenure as Head Coach over the past two and a half years and we hope that there is more to come this season as we prepare for the Heineken Cup quarter-final and push for a play-off place in the Pro 12."
