“Rowland will be a valuable asset to the team and completes our compliment of young coaches accompanying the squad on tour,” said Jenkins. “It was important for us to have a team of specialists covering all the different coaching areas and defence was the one outstanding appointment.
“Rowland has proved beyond doubt what he is capable of as a coach and his reputation speaks for itself. His appointment is another example of the unseen work of the WRU, this time within coach development.
“High quality international and regional players are being encouraged to get into coaching which means we have the resources to dip into at the highest level.”
Phillips has been under the watchful eye of WRU Elite Coach Manager Leighton Morgan whilst studying for his WRU Level Four coaching qualification.
“Whilst coach development is of extreme importance, we are always keen to fast-track people of Rowland’s calibre,” added Morgan. “Rowland has shown desire, commitment and ambition since taking up coaching and, as is the case for Neil and Robin, it is important that we have such valuable and promising coaches already in the Welsh system that can be utilised in this way.
“Rowland has experience from a distinguished playing background in both rugby union and rugby league spanning over 15 seasons. This tour will certainly assist all three in their coaching development.
“I am confident we have a coach development programme which is as good, if not better, than any in the world, and what we have in Gareth Jenkins is someone who is prepared to give these young coaches exposure at the top end of the game which is fantastic.”
Rowland Phillips said, “It is a similar feeling to being told you will represent your country on the playing field, the news came as a huge surprise but an uplifting one. I’m an ambitious coach and it is great to be given this chance to hone my skills further at the highest level.”
Rowland Phillips
Rowland Phillips, a back row forward with Neath, won 10 caps for Wales between 1987 and 1989, making his debut against the USA Eagles and appearing in his final Test against Ireland.
Born in St Davids on 28 July, 1965, he signed for Warrington on 19 September, 1990, and enjoyed a highly successful Rugby League career, representing Wales in the 13-man code.
He took over as Neath coach in 2003, guiding them to back-to-back Premiership titles in 2005 and 2006 and to this season’s Konica Minolta Cup final. He was coach to Wales U18 this season.
Tour Dates
Wales depart for Argentina on Thursday 1 June 2006 and return Monday 19 June.
First Test:
Argentina v Wales, Raul Conti Stadium, Puerto Madryn, Sun 11 June 2006, KO 2.40pm (local time)
Second Test:
Argentina v Wales, Velez Sarsfield, Buenos Aires, Sat 17 June, KO 3.40pm (local time)
