Graham Rowntree appointed Scrum Coach for the 2009 Tour to South Africa
Graham Rowntree has been appointed as scrum coach for next summer’s Lions tour of South Africa.
Rowntree, 37, is the final piece of Ian McGeechan’s coaching jigsaw and will work alongside Warren Gatland (forwards), Shaun Edwards (defence) and Rob Howley (attack) on the 10-match, three-Test tour.
McGeechan targeted Rowntree as a two-time Lions tourist and a recently-retired player who he believes boasts the unique qualities required to build a winning environment in such limited time.
Rowntree played on the Lions’ victorious 1997 tour to South Africa and made Test appearances against Argentina and New Zealand on the troubled 2005 tour.
McGeechan said: “Graham has played in Test matches for the Lions and he has been on a tour where he experienced the disappointment of not being involved in the Tests but was fantastic is producing the environment that delivered success.
“His role will be more than just scrummaging. He has that experienced and he is so close to the game, which is a big plus in knowing what is required of the players.
“The biggest problem for us is getting together, having never played together. That is the biggest challenge. That is why coaching-wise we have people like Graham on board who understand that challenge.”
Posted by Steve
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on Friday, December 19th, 2008 at 4:18 pm
Posted In Lions News | Tags: Graham Rowntree, Lions News