Connacht have received a major boost with the announcement that coach Steph Nel has signed a new three year contract. The 35-year-old South African took charge of Connacht two years ago after one of their worst seasons in history, but his impact has been significant as he masterminded a much improved campaign last season.
Connacht reached the quarter-finals of the inaugural Celtic League and had a good run in the Parker Pen European Shield before losing to eventual winners Sale. The news follows the appointment of Galway journalist John Fallon as manager last week.
Nel, who was also assistant to Ireland A coach Matt Williams last season, believes the future for Connacht is bright. He enthused: "We have worked hard on and off the pitch over the past two seasons. The important thing now is that we continue to build on the level of progress. We have a very young side but they have displayed great maturity and with people like Eric Elwood around to lead the way, we can approach the new season with confidence. This is an exciting time for Connacht Rugby."
Filed by Shane Murray
