We are delighted to confirm that we have secured the services of Brian McLaughlin who will join the Club’s coaching group in time for the return of Senior training in early May.

Brian will need no introduction to rugby fans, having led Ulster to a Heineken Cup Final in 2012. He also worked as skills coach to the Ireland Senior side between 2005 and 2008, coached Ireland at Under-21s level and has coached teams to nine Schools Cup Finals, winning five.

More recently Brian has coached Armagh, masterminding their progression through the All Ireland League, before joining Ballynahinch where alongside our Director of Rugby, Tom Rock, he won an Ulster League and secured promotion for the Ballymacarn men to the top tier of the All Ireland League.

Brian will join our established group of coaches working with the Senior Squad whilst also offering his experience to develop our thriving Youth Section.

Tom Rock spoke of his delight at getting Brian to the Club:

“We advertised for an additional Coach last year and didn’t end up appointing anyone, but I have been conscious for some time that we would benefit from some additional resource. I have a great relationship with Brian from our time at Ballynahinch, and getting him on board to help is hugely exciting for the Club.”

“It’s not just about the Senior Club, he will offer support to the Youth in particular, and free me up to do more of that also.”

“We’ve known about this for a little while now, but we’ve just been quietly going about our business preparing for the return to rugby. I’ve been completely open throughout my time at the Club so far, that we need to reframe our mindset which for so long was focussed on returning the Club to senior status, and build a winning culture that looks to build on that and progress further. Brian coming on board to help out will be another big step towards that, so I am delighted, and looking forward to working with him again.”