London Irish Director of Rugby Nick Kennedy and his management team have signed long-term contract extensions with the club. 

Kennedy, along with Defence Coach Declan Danaher and Skills Coach Paul Hodgson have all penned new deals with London Irish.

Exiles’ icon Brendan Venter, who laid the foundations for Saracens’ European and domestic success, continues in his role as Technical Director. 

Chief Executive Bob Casey said: “As a club we are delighted that the coaches have committed their long-term future to London Irish.

“They have been relentless in creating a positive forward-thinking environment for the players to train in, which has been vital in helping the club achieve our goal of returning to the Premiership. 

“Under the guidance of Brendan, the management team led by Nick deserve huge credit and the board had no hesitation in extending their tenure at the club.”

Technical Director Brendan Venter said: “Nick and his management team have done a tremendous job this season in developing the squad both on and off the field.

“Listening to Nick and his coaches, I realise how hard they work every day and this is apparent by the way in which they have instilled a positive culture throughout the club.

“Their passion for the club is ingrained in everything that they do and their ability to pass this on to the players has been crucial. It’s fantastic news that they have made a long-term commitment to the club, which bodes well for the future of London Irish.”

A Heineken Cup winner with Toulon in 2013, Kennedy returned to Irish in the summer of 2014 to take up the role of Academy Director alongside former teammates Danaher and Hodgson. 

Instrumental in guiding the London Irish under-18s to the Premiership Rugby Academy crown in 2016, Kennedy was appointed the club’s Director of Rugby later the same year.

Joined by Danaher and Hodgson in the coaching office, the duo have London Irish coursing through their veins. Danaher made 275 appearances for the Exiles and was part of the team that lifted the Powergen Cup in 2002, while England capped Hodgson spent eight seasons with the club. 

Be part of the London Irish family with a 2017/18 Season Membership. Great value from £295 for adults and under 12s are free for 18 home games and so much more. Visit www.london-irish.com/membership or call 0118 968 1016 to find out more.

 

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