Blues get Steadman to fix defence

 

Steadman makes the move to Cardiff Arms Park from next week, having worked the last three seasons in England with Premiership outfit Newcastle Falcons.

 

The 53-year-old had previous successful spells as defence coach for both Scotland and Ireland, after a glittering 16-year playing career in rugby league.

 

Steadman later worked as head coach at Castleford and as assistant coach with the Great Britain rugby league team before his move into rugby union.

 

The Knottingley-born coach also worked with Munster before successful spells with Ireland and Scotland.

 

Cardiff Blues head coach Danny Wilson said Steadman was the perfect option in their search for a defence coach 

 

"We needed a defence coach with international experience and who has worked at the top end of the game in both the English Premiership and PRO12," said Wilson.

 

"Graham has an outstanding reputation right across the game and has also worked in other sports, with a spell as assistant coach of Great Britain rugby league.

 

"That experience will be huge for Cardiff Blues in an area where we really need to build a foundation and some pride. I’m delighted that Graham has come on board.

 

Steadman said he is looking forward to getting the best out of the Blues players defensively.

 

"I’ve been to the training ground and observed some sessions and had a taste of it," said Steadman. 

 

"I can’t wait to get on the pitch, work with these fellas and see what they are about.

 

"I'm a big believer that any team success is built around a strong defensive platform and if we can get that right I’m sure it can put us in a good position.

 

"I want to get the full potential out of the boys and the very best out of them. It's going to be a little bit disruptive with it being a Rugby World Cup season, but there are no excuses here.

 

"It is going to be a collective effort from the entire squad and everyone must contribute."