Connacht keeps it in the family

 

Duffy has beeen working as the elite player development officer in the successful Connacht Rugby Academy since 2011 and will join the province's senior coaching team from the start of their pre-season on June 29.

 

As a player, Duffy represented Connacht more than twenty times and, during this time, he went on to play for the Barbarians, the Combined Provinces, Ireland Under-21 and Ireland A.

 

After Duffy's playing career ended he transitioned into the role of coach. Duffy has been the head coach of Connacht's  U-20s for the past four seasons. He has also been assistant coach to Nigel Carolan with the Connacht Eagles and, previously for seven seasons, with Ireland U-18s.

 

Connacht CEO Willie Ruane said Duffy's growth from player to coach is testament to the province's development structures.

 

"I am delighted to see Jimmy take up this role in Connacht Rugby," said Ruane.

 

"Jimmy is a great example of Connacht realising our vision of grassroots to greenshirts, bringing indigenous Connacht players through from our clubs and enabling them to realise their ambitions as professional players and coaches within Connacht." 

 

Duffy said he is relishing the chance to work alongside head coach Pat Lam.

 

"It is a new challenge for me and one I am hugely looking forward to," said Duffy.

 

"There is real ambition and belief in Connacht and the current squad. I want to make my contribution and support Pat and the rest of the management team in taking the next step forward."

 

With Duffy having years of experience at various levels in Connacht's setup, Lam believes he will make a big impact in the senior side. 

 

"When I first arrived at Connacht I was extremely impressed with the coaching ability and commitment of Jimmy. I could see why he has been a key figure in our Connacht Rugby Academy, in developing talented rugby players and young leaders," Lam said. 

 

"He will bring both strong technical coaching skills and authentic leadership qualities that will have a real impact as we continue to build and progress as a young squad. I'm delighted that he will be joining the Pro team and he will be an excellent addition to our coaching group."