AIB League Division One champions Shannon have appointed former player Ian Sherwin as their new assistant coach.

The 36-year-old former scrum-half, a three-time AIL medal winner since 1994, will have a special responsability for backs in his role with the Limerick club. Sherwin is currently the IRFU's coaching conditioning development manager, having been employed by the Union initially as a development officer in 1998.

Sherwin said of his appointment: "It's a fantastic honour for me to return to Shannon and get involved in coaching such a fine side. They have set a very high standard over the last couple of years so there is a huge challenge for me to improve them but I'm looking forward to working with Mick (Galwey), all the players and the club in general."

Shannon RFC chairman Pat O'Connor added: "Ian Sherwin has a fine reputation as a coach and we are delighted on his return to us. His knowledge of the game will undoubtedly be of immense benefit to the club, and the players."