IRFU announce international age grade management teams

The Irish Rugby Football Union has announced the management teams for the Ireland under-20 and Ireland under 18 Club international sides.

The Ireland U-20 team, which achieved an historic Six Nations Grand Slam this season, will keep its successful management intact for next seasons Six Nations and inaugural IRB Junior World Championships.

The team will again be coached by Connacht Assistant Coach and former international out-half Eric Elwood. He will be assisted by former Connacht player and current video analyst Dan McFarland and the side will be managed by former international prop forward Phil Orr.

Commenting on the announcement, Eric Elwood said: “Last season was a great experience not only for the players, but also for the coaching and management team. The challenge is set up for a new group of players next season and with the new Junior World Championships to look forward to, it will be even more testing.”

“The opportunity to work with some of the top young players in the country in both the Six Nations and the World Championship is very fulfilling from my own point of view. Hopefully we can help to develop the players at this level to go on to even higher representative honours.”

The Ireland U-18 Club side also had a successful season in making it to the final of the FIRA U-18 Championships for the first time where they lost to hosts France in a penalty shootout. The same management team will also be at the helm next season for the FIRA tournament which will include Coach Greg Lynch, Assistant Coach Richie Murphy and Manager Willie Gribben.