Scarlets Appoint Experienced Rugby Specialist Leigh Jones as New Performance Director
In a significant move, the Scarlets have announced the appointment of Leigh Jones as their new performance director. Jones, a highly respected figure in the world of rugby, brings a wealth of experience gained at both the club and international levels.
Background and Experience
The 64-year-old’s most recent role was leading rugby operations for the Leicester Tigers, where he played a pivotal part in the team’s Gallagher Premiership triumph in 2022. Prior to this, Jones spent six years with the Hong Kong Rugby Union, serving as head coach and overseeing their elite rugby program, successfully guiding them through the repechage for the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Furthermore, Jones boasts an impressive international coaching pedigree, having worked as an assistant coach for the Japanese national team under Eddie Jones, with highlights including pool stage victories over heavyweights such as South Africa, the USA, and Samoa during the 2015 World Cup.
Excitement for the New Role
Commenting on his new appointment, Jones expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It is a privilege to join the Scarlets, a club with such a rich and successful heritage in rugby and one known and respected globally for developing some of Wales’ best players over the decades.” He went on to emphasize his excitement about the talented Scarlets players yet to emerge, and his eagerness to support head coach Dwayne Peel and his team in their pursuit of returning the club to the heights it rightfully belongs.
Peel, the Scarlets’ head coach, shared his delight in welcoming Jones to the team, stating, “Leigh has a depth and range of experience delivering world-class rugby performance programmes, so he understands fully what it takes to build a winning team. We are looking forward to working closely with him and for the knowledge and experience he’ll bring to our rugby environment.”
Conclusion
With Leigh Jones’ impressive track record and the support of the experienced Dwayne Peel, the Scarlets are well-positioned to embark on a new era of success, as they aim to cement their status as one of the leading forces in Welsh and European rugby union.
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