Dragons RFC are pleased to announce Rhys Patchell has been appointed Kicking Coach at the club ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Former Wales international Patchell has linked up with the Men of Gwent during pre-season preparations in a new part-time consultancy role.
The 32-year-old brings vast experience and pedigree to the position, after a playing career that started at Cardiff Rugby where he amassed over 600 points in a five-year stint.
Former playmaker Patchell went on to represent Scarlets – where he won the PRO12 title – Highlanders in New Zealand and most recently with NEC Green Rockets Tokatsu in Japan.
The Llandough-born fly half/full back also made 22 appearances for Wales between 2013 and 2023, featuring in the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Head Coach Filo Tiatia said: “We’re delighted to welcome Rhys into our environment to for him to work with our squad.
“Rhys brings knowledge and experience after featuring at the highest level, playing not only in Wales but also in New Zealand with the Highlanders and most recently in Japan.
“Rhys is a young coach who us building a strong relationship with the players here and who we feel will continue to grow in the role and make an impact on the Dragons.”
Rhys Patchell said: “I’m excited to have the opportunity to take on this new role at the Dragons. Throughout my career I have been fortunate to have worked with some great coaches, and I hope to use all those experiences to help our players.
“I have loved getting on the field and working with our players as they develop their craft. The boys have worked hard in pre-season, and I’m looking forward to watching the growth in our squad.”
Wales international Rhys Patchell has officially announced his retirement from professional rugby. His journey, including his time in Japan and the decision to step away from the game, is captured in a new S4C documentary. The 32-year-old confirmed the news ahead of a three-part documentary on S4C, Rhys Patchell: Japan a’r Gic Olaf (Rhys Patchell: Japan and the Last Kick) which begins on S4C on 24 September at 20:25. With exclusive access to S4C cameras, the series offers a unique insight into the life of Rhys and his wife Heledd, as they embark on a transformative first year of marriage during Rhys’s first season in Japan.
I have loved getting on the field and working with our players as they develop their craft. The boys have worked hard in pre-season, and I’m looking forward to watching the growth in our squad...
