An interesting statistic was that nearly a third of the coaches in attendance were Welsh, Australian, South African and New Zealanders, which added greatly by providing different perspectives and humour throughout the course.

Adding to the international flavour two invitees were in attendance on request: Ronny Lauwers (Flanders Rugby Union) & Andrew Browne (Irish Exiles).

...The Coaches at Malahide with the Triple Crown Trophy...

The tutors who presented were Ray Ward (Scrum), Brian Walsh (Backline attack), Franco Ascione (FFR - General Movement), Michael Bradley (Man-Management) Colin McEntee (Restarts), Dan McFarland (Lineout), Allen Clarke (Phase play), Des Ryan (Fitness), Niall Malone (Counter Attack), Colin Moran (Skills Development, Psychological Skills & Role of the Coach) & Steve Aboud (Selection, Game Appreciation, Defence & Creation & Use of Space).

To complete the accreditation the coaches are now required to:

1. Produce a Periodised Development plan for the season
   
2. Produce a mid-season feedback questionaire & report on their perceived performance
   
3. Log 60 hours at the appropriate level (stage 4 head coach)
   
4. Successfully complete 2 practical observations.

More information on IRFU Coaching Courses - Click Here