Codling To Leave Ulster Rugby

Alex Codling was appointed as forwards coach for the Hughes Insurance Ulster Rugby Academy in May 2015 and took up the position of head coach of the Ulster ‘A’ team ahead of this season’s British & Irish Cup.

Codling has overseen the progress of a number of local young players who have made the step up to play senior rugby, but he admits that he is sad to be leaving the province.

“I’ve really enjoyed the year I have had with Ulster, but circumstances regarding my house dictate that I’m unable to stay on beyond this season,” explained the former England international.

“I have worked with some brilliant people during my time here, from the Academy staff to the senior coaches, through to the clubs and schools across the province. I’m proud to have worked with such a talented bunch of players in both the Academy and the ‘A’ set-up and I wish them well in their future careers.

“I’ve witnessed local young players pushing on into the senior squad and I’ve no doubt more will follow suit in the near future.

“The structures in place within Ulster Rugby are first class and the Academy is in a very healthy state under Kieran Campbell. Should the opportunity arise again in the future, I would love to come back to work in the province.”

Ulster’s director of rugby Les Kiss was full of praise for the departing coach, adding: “Alex has added a huge amount of experience to our Academy programme and has been a great success in helping to nurture some of the local talent we have coming through our player development pathway.

“He has brought a fresh perspective to the Academy and I know that our players, particularly our forwards, have benefited hugely from his insight and knowledge of the game.

“In particular, he has really aided the development of players such as John Andrew, John Donnan, Lorcan Dow and Stephen Mulholland. I’d like to thank Alex for his contribution to Ulster Rugby and wish him well in the future.”