The process has been far from smooth but Connacht have finally chosen their new head coach, former All Black Pat Lam.
Following a process that included criticism of one candidate who was not interviewed (Eddie O’Sullivan) and one who was offered the job but turned it down (Sean Holley), Connacht finally have the man to replace outgoing boss Eric Elwood.
Pat Lam, a former New Zealand and Samoa international will take the reins at the Sportsgrounds after signing a two-year-deal with the province.
After leaving his post as boss of the Blues in Auckland last year, Lam was always linked with the job from day one and now the 44-year-old has gotten the nod.
Connacht Chief Executive Tom Sears said:
“The appointment of our next coach is a huge decision for Connacht Rugby and at the end of an extensive process we are delighted to be able to appoint Pat Lam.
“The position attracted worldwide interest enabling us to select from an incredibly strong field and we are convinced Pat has all the qualities and credentials to take Connacht forward. Allied to his experience and technical expertise he displayed an excellent knowledge of Connacht, of where we are, what we aim to achieve, the obstacles we face and how we can ultimately achieve our objective of becoming one of the leading sides in European rugby.
“Throughout the selection process Pat displayed a real affinity to what Connacht Rugby means and that was crucial to us. He will no doubt bring about progressive changes but he is also extremely committed to retaining and building on the qualities that make Connacht unique.”
The man himself was also relishing the prospect of coaching here.
“My family and I are truly blessed to have another opportunity to be part of a new community and country and we are looking forward to the exciting challenge ahead at Connacht,” said Lam.
“I was very impressed by the Board’s vision for Connacht Rugby and the fighting spirit of the team and supporters to persevere against all the odds. I’m looking forward to working with good people to build on the great work that Eric has done.”
Connacht fans will surely be glad that the messy appointment process is complete. But they will have to wait until next season to see how Lam does in the role.
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