What’s been going on?

Written By: Editor on June 29, 2009 No Comment

What on earth has been happening in our sacred homeland since our departure on our African Adventure?

We heard about Brian McLaughlin’s appointment on our arrival at Cape Town over two weeks ago and ten days later the slick Ulster Rugby PR machine confirmed what everyone knew. Another “confused” managerial appointment by Ulster Rugby, much to the amusement or our Munster mates on tour.

Personally I’m very pleased with the appointment/s and the Raven was particularly delighted to see that they are naming the “A” Team after him.

Humphreys, a class act and a shrewd and respected ambassador for all things rugby should easily expand his role to look after all off pitch activities. I’m particularly pleased with the statement;

Humphreys will drive Ulster’s attempts to produce a squad largely made up of home-grown players, supported by a small number of high profile players from overseas.

To me this statement is what Ulster Rugby should be about, to develop our boys to compete on the European and International stages. Ok it’s what we’ve always supposed to have been doing but it’s great to see it there in black and white!

Brian McLaughlin, another shrewd operator and one of the most successful Ulster coaches at Club and School level. McLaughlin’s skills at making the best out of limited squads should fit comfortably with Ulster’s plan to develop local talent.

When you add to this his successful stints with Ireland at U21 level and as specialist skills coach, Ulster Rugby should be congratulated for having the foresight to give this talented coach the opportunity to prove his ability at the highest level. I can’t wait to see what he does with O’Connor and Ian Humphreys.

Jeremy Davidson, been there, done that and got the tee shirt. Davidson has played at the highest level on the world stage and will be a constant reminder to our home grown talent of what is possible in the playing arena.

His coaching experience in France should help bring a harder edge to our forwards and release our talented backs to run amuck next season. Certainly Caldwell and McCullough should benefit from his experience.

All in all I think this is a great strategic plan by Ulster Rugby. It’s very much like what was happening during the McCall era but with these personalities in charge it stands a much better chance of being a continued success. Build from the roots up, maximise the indigenous talent and bring in a few big names where required. It’s not about instant success, but continued growth. However I’ve a sneaking feeling that with the talent at our disposal things will turn round quicker than expected.

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Tags: Brian McLaughlin, David Humphreys, Jeremy Davidson, Ulster Rugby, Ulster Rugby Coach