Dragons have today announced the appointment of Dai Flanagan as the club’s new Head Coach.
Flanagan joins the Men of Gwent ahead of the 2022/2023 season from Scarlets, where he has worked as Backs Coach since 2019.
The 36-year-old is regarded as one of the most exciting young coaching talents in Welsh rugby and is looking forward to his new opportunity at Rodney Parade.
Flanagan said: “I’m excited to be joining Dragons and putting my mark on the team and how we play. I’m keen to build on the foundations that have been put in place and enhance and develop our performances.
“I started my career back at Newport High School, working with the likes of Leon Brown and Joe Davies in the Dragons Academy set-up, so it’s a fantastic prospect to come home to work with those boys again and help make them better.
“I’ve been involved with Scarlets for eight years in several roles, including heading up the coaching team when the opportunity arose, so I leave with memories of an unbelievable rugby journey.
“I'd like to thank Dwayne and the Scarlets for allowing me to take up this opportunity and also all the staff and players, I can't thank them enough. From the likes of Rhys Priestland and Regan King when I first joined, to Scott Williams and Steff Hughes, who are so knowledgeable about the game. I’ve had great support and wish them all well."
David Buttress, Chairman at Dragons Rugby, today welcomed the appointment.
“We’re delighted that Dai joins us ahead of next season and that a proud Gwent man, and one of the most innovative coaching talents in Wales, will get to work with the talented squad and coaching team we have assembled,” he said.
“Our thanks go to our friends at Scarlets for their understanding and working with us to ensure Dai can take up this opportunity at this stage in his career.”
Jon Daniels, Scarlets General Manager of Rugby, said: “Dai has been a valued member of our coaching pathway and then senior team since he joined the Scarlets eight years ago.
“Since we became aware that Dai was being considered for the role of Head Coach at Dragons and that he was keen to embrace this opportunity, both the Scarlets and Dragons have been able to work together to allow a talented young Welsh coach the chance to take up this position.
“We’d like to thank Dai for his commitment to the Scarlets and wish him well for the next chapter in his career.”
Meanwhile, Dragons can confirm that Gordon Ross has left his role as Backs Coach following the conclusion of the 2021/22 season.
We thank Gordon for his hard work and dedication over the last two seasons and wish him and his family every success in the future.
I’m excited to be joining Dragons and putting my mark on the team and how we play... I’m keen to build on the foundations that have been put in place and enhance and develop our performances...
