Scarlets Development Skills Coach Dai Flanagan has been appointed Llanelli RFC Head Coach for 2015-16.
Since joining the Scarlets in the Summer of 2014 Flanagan combined his role within the region’s academy with mentoring the senior kickers before being given the opportunity to oversee backs coaching and attacking play for the second half of the season.
Alongside his work within the regional structure Flanagan was also Backs Coach with the Principality Premiership side.
Commenting on the news Cefn Hengoed born Flanagan, himself a former outside half with Pontyprid RFC, said: “I’m delighted to have been handed this opportunity to take a more senior role with Llanelli RFC.
“The development pathway at the Scarlets is particularly strong and we are proud of the work that we do in developing young local talent. This gives me further opportunities to work with the region’s next generation of talent.”
He went on to say; “I’m thoroughly looking forward to the challenges ahead. A strengthened squad will give us an opportunity to be more competitive within the Premiership and we will hopefully reap the rewards.”
The Principality Premiership side also confirmed last week that Llanelli RFC Head Coach and Scarlets Academy Manager Kevin George will take the reins from Anthony Buchanan who has stepped down to concentrate on his work as National Appointed Director on the WRU Board.
Commenting on the appointment of Dai Flanagan as Head Coach Kevin George said: “Dai has made a really good impression at the Scarlets and has been given his first opportunity to lead his own coaching team.
“Dai is very level headed and has a great way with the players. I have no doubts that he will develop quickly in the role going on to be a successful coach at all levels.”
Speaking about his change of role at Llanelli RFC George went on to say: “I feel that taking up the role of Head of Rugby is a natural progression for myself after six years at the helm as Head Coach with Llanelli. It is a fantastic opportunity for us as a team to further develop aspiring and up and coming coaches.
“An important part of my role as Head of Rugby will be to coordinate backroom and playing staff as well as working closely with the local clubs to continue the development of local talent within the area.”
Further coaching appointments will be announced in due course.
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