JOHN MULDOON WILL return to Connacht to join Pete Wilkins’ coaching team next season, the province have confirmed.
The former Connacht player will return to The Sportsground on a two-year deal, and will have responsibility for the lineout and maul, working in conjunction with Colm Tucker who will remain in charge of the scrum and breakdown.
Earlier this month, Connacht confirmed current forwards coach Dewald Senekal would join Oyonnax at the end of the season.
Muldoon represented Connacht 327 times across a 15-year playing career and captained the side to the historic Pro12 title win in 2016.
Ladies and gentlemen . . . he's back 👑#ReturnOfTheMul https://t.co/NGm0mD61yx pic.twitter.com/k4sA3CTiYb
— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) March 28, 2023
Muldoon retired in 2018 and has spent the last five years working with Bristol Bears. The former backrow was first appointed as Bristol defence coach before taking on responsibility for the forwards. Bristol won the Challenge Cup in 2020 and finished first in the 2020/21 Gallagher Premiership table, before losing to Harlequins in the semi-finals.
“I’m very excited to be coming back to Connacht Rugby,” Muldoon said.
“It’s hard to believe it’s been five years and I’m really looking forward to moving back to Galway and getting to work with the boys.
“There’s some familiar faces but a lot of new ones too, since my time there. In that regard I am excited by the blend of young talent coming through within the squad, coupled with the quality and experience of some of the more experienced guys. Dewald’s (Senekal) done an exceptional job the last two years and I want to build on that over the coming seasons.
I’ve obviously been watching Connacht from afar and it’s clear the team have been building momentum throughout the season.
“From speaking to Pete these last couple of weeks I’m excited about his vision for where he hopes to take the team and I am delighted to be able to play my part on that journey and deliver on the level of ambition that everyone with an interest or involvement in Connacht Rugby is striving to achieve.”
“John Muldoon needs no introduction, but it’s worth stressing that first and foremost he’s an excellent coach, who has clearly made a huge contribution in his five years at Bristol,” said Wilkins, who will step up as Connacht head coach following Andy Friend’s departure at the end of the season.
“I worked with John during his last season at Connacht – and my first – and it was clear at that stage he had all the attributes to become a top-class coach. It’s been great to see that early potential realised over the last few seasons and I look forward to him bringing that experience back to Connacht Rugby
“Secondly, very few people understand the culture and values of Connacht Rugby like John does. He’s experienced first-hand all the highs and lows, and has a connection with this place that cannot be overstated.
“That passion and knowledge will be a benefit to all of us, and I know everyone who has an interest in Connacht Rugby will be delighted to see him back in the West.”
The42 is on Instagram! Tap the button below on your phone to follow us!
