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Former pro joins school as rugby and conditioning coach


July 10, 2019 - 1335 views

Rydal Penrhos has confirmed the appointed of Rob O’Donnell as Rugby and Conditioning coach.

The former professional player within the English system will work with the school’s senior and age grade squads throughout the campaign both on the field and at the school’s state-of-the-art Performance Centre.

O’Donnell is a six foot, five inch forward who can operate on both sides of the scrum and began his career at Waterloo before making a high-profile switch to Sale Sharks, where he made 35 appearances.

This was followed by a spell with Rotherham Titans over a two-year period, and O’Donnell also enjoyed hugely successful stints at Worcester Warriors and Yorkshire Carnegie.

He recently retired from the professional game following a fantastic 14-year career, and he is sure to be a huge asset to Rydal Penrhos’ sporting provision that has achieved considerable success in recent years.

This saw the programme shortlisted in the Sporting Achievement category at the Independent School of the Year Awards, with the winner set to be announced in October.

O’Donnell visited Rydal Penrhos on Friday, June 21 for a special coaching session with Year 9 and 10 prior to his appointment.

Head of Physical Education Nicky Head, said: “We are thrilled that Rob has agreed to come in and work with our aspiring rugby players here at Rydal Penrhos, and his vast experience is going to be a significant boost to the specialist coaching provision we provide here.

“He is a very knowledgeable individual who has achieved a considerable amount throughout his career, and this is going to aid the development of our pupils in a tremendous way.”