Former Ospreys coach Sean Holley has revealed he turned down the Connacht job because of ‘personal circumstances’ but has praised the professionalism of the Province.
By Declan Whooley
Since Eric Elwood announced that he would be stepping down as head coach at the end of the season, speculation rose that Holley would be one of the forerunners for the role.
Holley parted company with the Ospreys in February of last year and has been working as a pundit for BBC Wales. After interviewing for the role at the Sportsground he was offered the top job but admits that the timing was not right.
“No head coach position should be taken for granted… and I am flattered and honoured to have received the Connacht offer,” he told BBC.
“However, my decision is based purely on the timing and my current personal circumstances,” he added.
The news will come as a blow to Tom Sears and the Connacht board as they continue to search for a replacemement. It may come as little consolation, but Holley did praise the professionalism of the Province.
“The professionalism, vision and drive of the Connacht board in particular has made this a tough decision,” he said.
The decision not to give former Ireland and Connacht coach Eddie O’Sullivan has been criticised in many quarters, but Pat Lam appears now to be the favourite to succeed Elwood in the Connacht hotseat.
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