RUGBY SHORTS
FORMER England Saxons head coach Steve Bates has been named performance manager and international performance coach by the RFU.
The former Wasps No.9 and Newcastle head coach will join the RFU ahead of the U20 World Championship this summer and will report to Dean Ryan, head of international player development.
An RFU statement read: “Bates will lead the England U20s programme, delivering talent identification and facilitating coach and player development.”
Bates said: “I have a passion for developing both players and coaches so I couldn't have asked for a more suited role.
“The RFU and Premiership Rugby have an excellent long-standing relationship and I'm looking forward to the opportunity to work closely with the professional clubs to drive the development programme forward, providing a fantastic platform for both players and coaches to develop at international level.
“I've been very impressed with what I've seen from England U20 so far this season and the World Rugby U20 Championship this summer will be a fantastic opportunity to look at areas which we can develop further and keep moving forward.”
Ryan said: “The combination of his experience of coaching at the highest level and teaching within education means that Steve is an excellent fit for this role.
“His experience means he will offer a great sounding board for everybody on the programme and he will facilitate the opportunity for the coaches to grow and make their own mark of the team.”
