Andy Friend has signed a new two-year contract extenstion to stay as Connacht head coach until the end of the 2022/23 season.
“Ever since my wife and I moved to the West of Ireland I have been blown away by both the welcome we have received from the people here, as well as the pride they have for their province and for Connacht Rugby” declared Friend.
“It has been a really enjoyable time for both of us and it was an easy decision to commit to a further two years.”
There’s a hugely exciting few years ahead for Connacht, both on the field with the squad we have and off the field with the redevelopment of The Sportsground” added Friend.
“I want to play my part in the next stage of this journey and I will do all I can to build on the progress we have made to-date and ensure we deliver on the real potential that exists within this group.”
Friend is in his third season at the province, having joined in the summer of 2018 following Head Coach roles in Australia, England and Japan and finally as Head Coach of the Australian Sevens side.
In his first campaign Connacht reached the Guinness PRO14 playoffs, ensuring Heineken Champions Cup qualification in the process
Back-to-back Champions Cup qualification was secured during the shortened 2019/20 season, and the side currently sit in 2nd place in Conference B of this season’s campaign.
“Everyone at Connacht Rugby has been really impressed by what Andy has brought to the province in his three seasons here” said CEO of Connacht Rugby Willie Ruane.
“He has bought into everything we are trying to achieve and brings a positive culture and ethos to the entire organisation.”
“Whilst Andy has been instrumental in helping our existing players become better players, he has also given our Academy players the opportunities to impress and in doing so enabled us to build the depth we require to succeed”.
