Wales appoint new Director of Rugby with ‘unmatched’ experience

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) have confirmed the appointment of Dave Reddin as their new Director of Rugby and Elite Performance. 

Reddin brings 30-years’ worth of experience in multiple sports, including rugby union, football and the Olympics, to the role, and finally ends their long search for a suitable candidate.

WRU appoint Dave Reddin as Director of Rugby

“We are delighted Dave has agreed to join Welsh rugby at this exciting time,” said WRU CEO Abi Tierney.

“He brings a level of expertise and experience in directly relevant elite sporting environments unmatched around the globe and we know the whole game in Wales will reap the benefits of this appointment.

“We looked at a wide range of candidates for this position and I would like to thank all the people who expressed their interest and all individuals who have offered advice and counsel on who would be the best person for this job.

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“Without exception, everyone I have consulted about Dave Reddin has given a glowing recommendation and we know we have achieved a real coup by persuading him to join us.”

Reddin’s career began with Leicester Tigers in 1996 as a fitness coach, before later joining the England staff in 2003 ahead of the World Cup. He also served on the British and Irish Lions staff in 2005.

From there, he served as Head of Performance Services for the British Olympic Association between 2010 and 2012, notably helping preparations for the London games that year. 

He also enjoyed a six-year spell with the English Football Association and worked closely with England manager Gareth Southgate to transform the fortunes of the Men’s national side. He was also involved with the women’s team.

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“I am delighted and honoured to be joining Welsh rugby at such a pivotal time in the rich history of the game here,” said Reddin.

“This is one of the biggest jobs in world rugby because of the passion and meaning the game has in Wales.

“There are well-documented challenges but I’m inspired by the very real potential implicit in the new vision and strategy Abi and her team have communicated.

“My immediate focus is on the appointment of the next senior men’s head coach but I will also be immersing myself in gaining an understanding of the people and the game in Wales as quickly as possible to give me the insight to start to make positive changes for the future.”

As Reddin alluded too, he will now assist the WRU in appointing the new Wales men’s head coach. Current Scotland defence coach, Steve Tandy, is the leading contender for the role, but Cardiff boss and former Wales interim Matt Sherratt and Harlequins counterpart Danny Wilson are also in the conversation as well.

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