Connacht Rugby and the IRFU have announced that Pete Wilkins will take charge of the Province from Andy Friend next season.
Director of Rugby Andy Friend will leave Connacht at the end of the season to return to Australia, with Wilkins assuming overall responsibility for the team.
Wilkins joined Connacht as a defence coach in 2017 and was promoted to the role of Senior Coach in 2021, where he primarily focused on the attack.
Wilkins to replace Friend
When Friend moved from head coach to director of rugby in 2022, Wilkins became head coach, assuming greater responsibility for more of the on-pitch elements of the rugby programme. From next season, he will take overall responsibility of the squad.
“I am thrilled and honoured to be appointed Head Coach of Connacht Rugby for the next three seasons and to lead this talented group of players and backroom staff,” Wilkins told Connacht’s official website.
“In my six years here, I’ve come to appreciate what a special province this is – not just the people within the organisation but the wider supporter base and volunteers in the clubs and schools who help make rugby in Connacht what it is today.
“In that regard, I’m thankful to Connacht Rugby and the IRFU for entrusting me with the task of leading the professional setup during what will be a very exciting time on and off the field.
“For now however, my focus is solely on this season and making sure we have a strong finish in the URC and Challenge Cup.
“I know we can count on our incredible supporters for some vital games in the coming weeks and months. I can assure everyone that we will be doing everything in our power to cap off the great work of Andy during his time here, and to then further build on that, during my tenure at the helm of Connacht Rugby.”
Before joining Connacht, Wilkins worked with Edinburgh between 2015 and 2017. He also had a stint with the Queensland Reds from 2011 to 2015. Last year, he worked with the Irish coaching team during their tour to New Zealand.
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