DEAN Ryan has been confirmed as the Dragons new boss – and has been given a place on the Rodney Parade region’s board to address the issues “from top to bottom”.
The 52-year-old former Bristol, Gloucester and Worcester coach will leave his role with the RFU, where he had been head of international player development, to head to Newport on July 1.
Ryan is the replacement for Bernard Jackman, who was sacked in December, but will not have the same title of head coach.
The ex-England number eight will instead be given a wider remit of improving the immediate on-field fortunes and helping drive off-field change from the boardroom.
“It was always going to take a unique challenge to bring me back in to the club environment, and following my discussions with David Buttress and the WRU I’m hugely excited about what lies ahead,” said Ryan.
“I will take a hands-on role with the playing department and use my influence as a board member to address various issues so that the Dragons are set up from top to bottom to ensure everything is geared around the on-field and off-field success of the region.”
The Dragons have not won more than a handful of games in the last four seasons and Ryan will take over a team hunting a first PRO14 win away from home since March, 2015.
Chairman David Buttress is confident that the Englishman is the man to drive standards up.
“After an extensive and competitive process, it became clear Dean has the experience and skill-set to offer something greater and more beneficial to the Dragons and this new role we’ve created will see him have a voice at board level and an input across the organization,” said Buttress.
“Our immediate need is the on-field success of the first team and Dean will lead the coaching team in preparation for next season as he gets to know the players and staff in the playing department.
“We are excited to see the impact Dean can have on rugby in Gwent for the Dragons.”
Ceri Jones held the reins for the second half of the season after the dismissal of Jackman and will remain on the coaching team.
It is yet to be confirmed whether the former prop will have the title of head coach or return to his role of forwards coach.
The Dragons are holding a press conference this afternoon – more to come.
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