Scarlets defence coach inks new deal

Editor

Scarlets have confirmed that their defence coach Byron Hayward has extended his contract with the region until the end of 2017/18.

Hayward is the latest to put pen to paper at the region and the news comes just weeks after head coach Wayne Pivac confirmed that he would remain in West Wales for another two seasons.

Former Wales international, Hayward, has been in the role at the Scarlets since joining Pivac's coaching staff in August 2014 after time spent plying his trade at Ebbw Vale, Sale Sharks, Wales U20 and as the Welsh Rugby Union's National Academy skills coach.

Scarlets General Manager of Rugby Jon Daniels said: "We are pleased to see Byron committing his future to the region. 

"The addition of his signature, following on from the news only a few weeks ago that we have retained Wayne's services, shows the coaching staff's eagerness to continue to develop this current group of talented players.

"Continuity within the coaching group for the next few seasons will see us continue to build on the foundations already put in place over the last twelve months or so. Wayne has built a strong coaching group around him in Byron, Stephen and Ioan, and the fruits of their labour are already clear for all to see after such a strong start to the Guinness PRO12 season."

An accomplished player at fly-half, Hayward represented Wales on two occasions and won the league with Llanelli in 1999. On retiring he had scored a then joint record 2535 league points.

Speaking about the contract extension, Hayward said: "I'm very pleased to have extended my time here at the Scarlets. Last season was very much a bedding in period for myself, particularly coming in late and missing the pre-season but I see us going places as a region and the potential within the squad is massive.

"I'm very fortunate to work with a very honest and hard-working group of players. Defensively we still have a long way to go but the potential is exciting.

"I'm grateful to Wayne for allowing me to do my job from day one and has backed me 100%. The coaching group is very compatible; myself and Steve see the game in a similar way which allows for a seamless transfer between our defence and attack work."