The IRFU in conjunction with Leinster Rugby, Connacht Rugby and Rugby Players Ireland are launching a pilot scheme called PathFinder to indentify and support High Performance coaching talent.
The IRFU have recognized the need to create greater levels of transparency and accessibility with regard to High Performance coaching career opportunities.
PathFinder is a future focused talent initiative designed to identify, confirm and integrate new coaching talent within and across the IRFU’s High Performance structure.
The long term vision is to create an on-going supply of diverse and dynamic High Performance coaching talent.
Initially a limited number of successful candidates will be provided with financial and mentorship support to complete a placement with a minimum commitment of 120 hours designed to test and confirm future career feasibility.
*Currently Munster Rugby and Ulster Rugby have partnered with the IRFU and are piloting other IRFU projects.
Jamie Turkington, the IRFU’s National Coach Development Manager said, "This programme is a new and exciting way to engage coaches who are interested in taking their careers to the next level.
The pathways in Irish rugby are well defined and we need to ensure that we continue to not just produce brilliant players, but brilliant coaches who can guide and nurture talent in those pathways. Successful candidates will not only receive financial support but will have access to mentorship as they go on their coaching journey.
"We are delighted to partner with Leinster Rugby, Connacht Rugby and Rugby Players Ireland on this programme and look forward to meeting suitable candidates in the coming weeks.
What Are We Looking For?
Coaches who can prove that they meet the following 4C criteria:- Character – High self-awareness & openness to learning.
- Coaching Capability – Capability to coach high potential players and achieve success.
- Career Intent – Genuine desire to develop a coaching career.
- Career Track Record –Experience of and the ability to harness examples of success and failure during your career to date.