McClearn Appointed As NUIG Head Coach

Following their successful Connacht League promotion last season, NUIG RFC have further bolstered their coaching staff with the appointment of Galwegians stalwart Brian McClearn as head coach for the 2015/16 season.

Brian McClearn has taken to coaching following a hugely successful playing career with the Dublin Road-based club and the former Galwegians lock and captain, who has eight Connacht Eagles caps to his name, will take up the reins with the University side with immediate effect.

Assistant coach Barry Kilroy and former Ireland Under-19 forwards coach Bartley Fannin complete the NUIG coaching team.

Speaking about the new role, McClearn said: “I’ve had a great playing career and I always knew I’d be involved in coaching when I hung up my boots, so I’m delighted to take on this fresh challenge with NUIG.

“They’re a club that are really going places and I’m looking forward to building on the good work done over the last couple of years and taking the club to the next level.”

Chairman of NUIG RFC, Michael O’Mahony, was equally happy with the appointment, stating: “Securing Brian’s services has been a huge boost for the club, his significant experience with Galwegians and Connacht Eagles will bring a dynamic and robust edge to our squad as we start preparing for the season ahead.

“Attracting coaches of this calibre shows the ambition of the club and is another step on the way to restoring this historic club to its former glory.”