Pope steps down from Mary's

Brent Pope is to step down as head coach of St Mary's at the end of the season, it was revealed today.

St Mary’s College announced the decision today. In an amicable parting, the club was informed of Brent’s decision earlier this week.

Having spent five years with St Mary’s as head coach, Pope felt the time was right for him to step aside and let somebody else take the reins.

Pope felt that five years at any club was possibly too long, and stated that full-time work in Brookfield MRI Clinic, RTE, and other media commitments prevented him "being able to give St Mary’s the time they so justly deserve”.

Pope will consider his coaching options after a summer away from the game, his first in nearly two decades.

Pope was also heavily involved in player recruitment and development, going as far as to take young St Mary’s talent with him to New Zealand every off season.

The highlight of Brent’s period as coach was becoming the first, and only Leinster team to ever capture the coveted AIL Trophy.

Pope sent an emotional letter to the club, thanking all the rugby people he had worked with during his tenure as coach and wished the club and their new coaching staff the very best of luck in the future.