News Detail

Corrib RFC Announces New Senior Coaching Team

Corrib RFC is delighted to announce the appointment of a dynamic new coaching team for our Senior Men's team. These coaches bring a wealth of experience, dedication, and fresh perspectives to the club. Meet our new coaches:

Head Coach: Thomas Smith

Thomas Smith brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective as the new Head Coach. He has completed various coaching courses, including minis, youths, and senior coach awards. Thomas began his rugby journey at the age of 10 with Westport, playing there until joining Corrib at U16. He trained and played with Connacht development squads from U16 to U19, gaining valuable experience. Thomas started his coaching career after his second shoulder surgery in 2021, helping with the U18.5s. He continued coaching in the 2022/23 season with the same core group of players. In 2022, Thomas became Corrib CRDO and soon after a development coach for Connacht North West region, coaching U16, U17, and U18 players. He was then appointed Connacht U17 Development Coach for the 2023 Summer program. His coaching philosophy is player-led, emphasising fast-paced, heads-up rugby where players can express themselves. Thomas's goal is to create an environment for players to achieve their goals through improved structures tailored to the squad's strengths.

Team Manager: Kieran Cooney

Kieran Cooney has been appointed as the Team Manager, a choice that will prove to be very popular. Recently honoured as the ‘Club Person of The Year,' Kieran's dedication and commitment to Corrib RFC have been unwavering. Known for his ability to bring out the best in players, Kieran is also a registered Connacht Branch Referee, often stepping in at short notice to ensure games proceed. Club president Eugene Kenny praised Kieran for his immense dedication as both a coach and a club member, highlighting his multiple coaching roles across youth and senior sections, "We at the club are hugely grateful for Kieran’s many years of support to rugby at Corrib RFC." Kieran also helped coach and manage the development team last season, showcasing his versatile coaching skills and dedication to the club.

Forwards Coach: John McHugh

John McHugh has been a stalwart of Corrib RFC for over 26 years, starting his rugby journey with the club at the age of 10. Known primarily as a formidable number 8, John has the versatility to play anywhere in the pack. He made a significant impact as club captain in the 2014/15 season, leading the team to back-to-back Curley Cup victories. Transitioning to coaching, John aims to secure promotion to J1B and add more silverware to the club's collection. His coaching philosophy is centred on the enjoyment of the game, believing that the harder you play, the more you enjoy it. John is committed to instilling this ethos in his players, ensuring they play with passion and dedication. John will also serve as a player/coach next season, bringing his on-field experience directly to his coaching role.

Backs Coach: Eric Flynn

Eric Flynn brings a wealth of experience and a strategic approach to his role as Backs Coach. He holds an IRFU Youth Coach certification and is currently completing the IRFU Senior Coach Course. Eric began his rugby career with the minis at Corinthians RFC, progressing to senior level, and has played key roles in teams that won the Connacht J1A league and earned promotion to AIL Division 1B. His playing career includes stints with Monkstown RFC and the Leinster Juniors before returning to Corrib RFC. Eric started his coaching journey with various underage teams at Corrib RFC and has been the backs player/coach for the adult teams over the past three seasons. He adopts a process-driven coaching philosophy, focusing on executing basic skills under pressure. His goals for the 24/25 season include equipping players with the necessary skills to compete at higher levels and developing a fluid attacking backline.

Strength and Conditioning Coordinator: Mairtin Lee

Mairtin Lee joins the team as the Strength and Conditioning Coordinator, bringing a wealth of experience from his playing days. Mairtin played for Corrib RFC for 18 seasons, captaining the club and playing in nearly all positions in the pack. He also spent two seasons with Corinthians AIL, learning from renowned coaches and players like Phil Pretorius, Finlay Bealham, and Ultan Dillane. Named Connacht Junior Player of the Year in 2010, Mairtin went on to represent Connacht Juniors for several years - playing in every game during their first Interprovincial Title win in 2011. He then captained the side to retain the title in 2012. With a keen interest in athletic development and performance, Mairtin is looking forward to enhancing the Senior Team's strength and conditioning this season.

Pictured (L-R): John McHugh, Thomas Smith, Eric Flynn and Eugene Kenny (Club President).

Not pictured: Kieran Cooney and Mairtin Lee.