Matt Brown Appointed WNTS Provincial Talent Coach

Irish Rugby is pleased to announce the appointment of three new Provincial Talent Coaches within the Women’s National Talent Squad (WNTS) programme, further strengthening the player development pathway for emerging female rugby players across Ireland.

These appointments come following the progression of Larissa Muldoon, Niamh Briggs and Neill Alcorn into newly established provincial women’s rugby leadership roles.

The successful candidates are:

• Connacht: Craig Hansberry
• Munster: Matt Brown
• Ulster: Griffin Phillipson

The Provincial Talent Coach roles are a vital component of the Women’s National Talent Squad programme, supporting the identification, development and transition of talented players through the pathway system and towards senior provincial and international opportunities.
Gillian McDarby, Head of Women’s Performance & Pathways at Irish Rugby, said:

“These appointments are an important step in ensuring we continue to provide a high-quality development environment for players within the Women’s National Talent Squad programme.”

“Matt, Griffin and Craig each bring valuable experience and expertise to their respective roles, and I am delighted to welcome them into the women’s pathway. The strength of the applicant pool also reflects the growing interest and investment in the women’s game across Ireland.

“These Provincial Talent Coach roles are central to identifying, supporting and developing the next generation of players. I look forward to working with Matt, Griffin and Craig as we continue to evolve and enhance the pathway for female players across all four provinces.”

The appointments form part of Irish Rugby’s continued investment in the women’s game, ensuring that players across all provinces benefit from a connected national approach to talent identification, development and performance progression. As the women’s pathway continues to evolve, these roles will play a key part in helping players achieve their potential and preparing them for the demands of the senior game.