Signings and contract renewals are coming thick and fast at Connacht these days.
Fresh from the news that Connacht has captured the signing of Exeter Chiefs lock Aly Muldowney on a three year contract, it’s now been revealed that Assistant Coach Dan McFarland will stay and work alongside incoming Head Coach Pat Lam.
The former prop and Connacht player has signed for an initial two year contract, with the option of another year for a further period.
The former Stade Francais player was appointed Forwards coach in 2006 and was made Assistant Coach in 2012. He’s only the second player, after Eric Elwood to reach 100 caps for Connacht.
Chief Executive Tom Sears said:
“Dan McFarland is a key part of our coaching structure and we are delighted he will remain so. We always stressed that we wanted an element of continuity during this period of change and Dan’s involvement will be crucial to ensuring we have that. He is a high quality technical coach and just as importantly he is Connacht through and through.
“From the outset Pat Lam was adamant he wanted to have Dan as his assistant and we have no doubt they will work well together. We are still working on finalising the full make up of our coaching staff for next season and will release further details in due course.”
Speaking from New Zealand, incoming Head Coach Pat Lam said:
“I am delighted to have the opportunity to work alongside Dan. I’ve been very impressed with the work he has been doing with the Forwards and it provides us with some real continuity which is very important as we aim to build on Eric’s foundation. He is held in high regard by Connacht and Irish Rugby so to be able to secure his services going forward is a real coup for our team.”
Dan McFarland said:
“Connacht and Irish rugby are in my blood and I have been very lucky to be a part of them over the last 12 years, as a player and coach. The opportunities and experiences afforded by working and living alongside people with the ability, passion and determination found in the west of Ireland are very special. These are exciting times for Connacht Rugby and I am very much looking forward to working with Pat and learning from his undoubted experience and knowledge.”
