The IRFU confirmed today that Aled Walters will be the Head of Athletic Performance for the Men’s National Team.
The Welshman joins from England Rugby, where he has been their Head of Strength & Conditioning since 2022. Prior to that role, he was the Head of Athletic Performance for South Africa during their Rugby World Cup victory in 2019.
IRFU Performance Director David Humphreys said on the IRFU website: “On behalf of the IRFU, I am delighted to welcome Aled back to Irish rugby. He is a world-class performance coach with enormous international experience, and he will add significantly to the environment in the years to come. I would like to wish Aled well in his role, and we look forward to working with him ahead of the start of the Autumn Nations Series.”
"We are delighted that Aled has agreed to join the Ireland team," said Farrell. "He has a wealth of experience and has been a key part of many successful environments over the course of his career to date. I know how excited he is to return to Ireland and hit the ground running, and I’m confident that he’ll play an important role in the squad as we embark on a busy international season, starting with the Autumn Nations Series this November.
"Aled replaces Jason Cowman, who departed after the Guinness Six Nations success in March. Jason contributed a huge amount to Irish rugby over 15 years, and we thank him for his incredible service during that time."
The IRFU is delighted to announce the appointment of Aled Walters as the Head of Athletic Performance for the Men’s National Team 🟢#TeamOfUs
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) August 8, 2024
This isn't Walters' first stint with Irish rugby, as already mentioned by Humphreys. The Welshman started his career as Munster Rugby’s Head of Athletic Performance and stayed there for almost six seasons. He then joined the English side Leicester Tigers as their Head of Physical Performance between 2020 and 2023. His career also extends to other teams, such as the Brumbies and the Taranaki Rugby Football Union.
Walters added, "I am delighted to join the Ireland national team and am excited about the opportunity to work with such a talented group of coaches and players.
"The Ireland team has gone from strength to strength in recent years, and it’s an exciting time to rejoin Irish rugby as the team looks to achieve more success in the years to come.
"I’ve made some great memories coaching England, and I want to thank Steve [Borthwick], the management team, and the players for their friendship and support. I wish the squad every success in the future."
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