VALKYRIES have confirmed the appointment of Roy Davies as their new director of rugby ahead of the inaugural Women’s Super Rugby campaign.
Davies, who arrives from Bristol Ladies having recently led them to the Grand Final of the Women’s Premiership where they narrowly lost Aylesford Bulls Ladies, will steer the Valkyries in the new ten-team competition in September, following former director of rugby Donna Kennedy’s retirement.
“I’m extremely pleased to be joining a club with such a rich history in the women’s game,” said the 35-year-old from Llanelli.
“After meeting with the board, it’s clear to see that the intention is to create an outstanding player experience that will allow every player to develop to their potential, and that very much aligns with my philosophy and values.
“There is an excellent group of players at Worcester and I look forward to working with them to build something special that allows us to achieve a top-four status on a consistent basis.
“With the creation of Super Rugby, the Rugby Football Union (RFU) have made a clear commitment to raising standards and professionalising the women’s game, so it’s an exciting time to be involved.”
Davies spent two years at Bristol, where he began as forwards coach before being promoted to head coach.
Having had four years of experience coaching within the RFU Junior Academy, Davies also enjoyed spells as head coach of Gloucestershire Senior Ladies, Wells RFC and Brighton RFC.
Davies, who is a Level Three qualified coach and has a PGCE in physical education and a degree in sports coaching, played his rugby in the Gloucester Rugby Academy, as well as at Hartpury College, Moseley and Lydney.
Valkyries won the Women’s Premiership in 2012, becoming the first club outside of London to do so, but haven’t managed to repeat the feat since. They finished fifth in last season’s competition, missing out on the play-offs.
Warriors’ new managing director Gus Mackay said: “Roy has a wealth of experience in the game, and more importantly, the women’s game.
“He’s shown his credentials having led Bristol to last season’s Women’s Premiership final, so hopefully he can now turn the fortunes of the Valkyries and help them achieve their goal of becoming a top-end side in the new Super Rugby competition.”
The remainder of Valkyries’ backroom staff is still being finalised, with appointments expected to be made in the near future.