Campbell to leave Ulster Rugby Academy at end of the season

Ulster Rugby Academy Manager, Kieran Campbell, will leave the province to take up a new challenge in the summer. Former Ulster and Ireland scrum-half, Campbell, was appointed Academy Manager in 2015 following two years as Elite Performance Development Officer and working as the Ulster Academy’s Backs Specialist. During his time leading the Ulster Academy programme, graduates have included the likes of Rob Baloucoune, James Hume, Michael Lowry, Rob Lyttle, Stewart Moore, Jacob Stockdale, Eric O’Sullivan, Nick Timoney and Tom O’Toole, with a number of current Academy players also featuring for the senior team this season. On his time at the province, Kieran Campbell said: “The last six years has been a great journey in developing a pathway for Ulster’s young talent. I have been fortunate to lead the Ulster Academy, to support the development of young men in reaching their potential as rugby players, and people, and I am delighted that many are now realising their potential and performing with Ulster. “I have relished the challenge of my role with Ulster as Academy Manager, and with Ireland U20s, however, I believe the time is right for me to now step into a new challenge and I’m excited for what lies ahead. “I wish the province every success going forward. Ulster has been a huge part of my family’s and my life both as a player and coach, and we will leave with many great memories and friends.” Bryn Cunningham, Head of Rugby Operations and Recruitment, added: “There is no doubt that Kieran leaves behind a lasting legacy given the outstanding contribution he has made to rugby in the province, and across Ireland, over the past six years. “Building a pathway for young Ulster talent to transition from the domestic game into life as a professional has been a key focus for us as a club for the past number of years, and it is through Kieran’s leadership and stewardship of our Academy that this has been possible for many of our senior players. “We wish him the very best for this next chapter and thank him for everything he has given to the province.”