Mayo rugby club appoint new head coach

Castlebar Rugby Club have appointed David Newman as head coach of the club’s senior men’s team for the upcoming season.

David Newman began his rugby career with Chester RFC and progressed through the youth system before representing Cheshire at various age grades. He also represented the North of England at Under-17 and Under-18 level.

While attending university in Wales, Newman played for Builth Wells RFC in the Welsh League, alongside representative rugby for Mid Wales.

After moving to Ireland in 2000, he joined Ballina RFC, where he played in both the AIL and the Connacht Junior One (A) League for several seasons. During this time, he also played dual status rugby for two seasons with Connemara All Blacks and spent a number of years on the Connacht Junior side.

Speaking at the Castlebar senior squad’s pre-season training session in Cloondeash last Thursday, David Newman said: “This is a very exciting role for me as I see huge potential in the Castlebar players, and I look forward to working with them and the club’s committee to ensure that that ability is unlocked.”

Castlebar’s Director of Rugby, Mark Staunton, said: “David’s playing background, coaching experience, and passion for player development made him the strongest candidate for the position of head coach.”

Newman’s coaching journey began with Ballina RFC where he worked closely with youth coaches and club management structures to create clear pathways for player development. He was awarded Connacht Coach of the Year in 2019.

Castlebar’s Club President, Mairéad Bradley, welcomed David Newman to Cloondeash stating: “One of David’s greatest strengths as a coach is player development, particularly helping younger players understand their roles within a team structure that will help them reach their full potential. It is a pleasure to welcome David to Castlebar where he will have the support of the entire club.”