McLaughlin to move to Ulster Academy

Ulster Rugby have confirmed that they will appoint a new head coach for next season, with Brian McLaughlin moving to a senior coaching position within the Ulster Academy on a permanent basis.

On Tuesday, Director of Rugby David Humphreys addressed the media speculation that surfaced last week around Brian McLaughlin's future as head coach.

"While we are not yet in a position to confirm who our Head Coach will be for next season, I can confirm that Brian will remain in a senior coaching position at the club, moving to work with Gary Longwell in our Academy on a permanent basis.

The option of the Academy role offered Brian long-term stability and the security to leave his teaching job in order to coach full time." said Humphreys

"We are aiming to make Ulster Rugby a leading force in European rugby and to do that we need to develop our Academy system and elite player pathway.

"Brian has a proven record and a genuine interest in this area and this role offers him an opportunity to shape the future of Ulster Rugby. Our youngsters will benefit enormously from his experience."