Bown, a Performance Analyst who joined the Welsh Rugby Union in 2004, takes over the role of Head of Performance Analysis, managing an elite analysis performance structure that oversees the Senior National Squad, national age grade sides, sevens, women, Wednesday U18 League and referees.
He replaces Long, who leaves the WRU to become Head of Analysis and Insight at the FA. Long joined the WRU from London Wasps in 2007 and has been part of a National Squad that has won three RSB 6 Nations titles, including two Grand Slams. He has also managed the analysis performance structure that developed a pool of analysts who have filled more than 50 full-time positions across the world game.
Bown’s role with the National Squad will see him lead a team of three analysts. He will continue to work alongside Andrew Hughes (Performance Analyst) who has been part of the team since 2006 as well as Marc Kinnaird who worked alongside the National Squad in 2009 and 2013 and he joins from the WRU National Academy.
“I’m delighted to be appointed as Head of Performance Analysis,” said Bown.
“Rhys has implemented a very successful analysis structure within the WRU and I would like to thank him for everything he has done for the WRU. He has set up a structure that works with the whole game, from grassroots, through age-grades to the senior side and it is an exciting challenge to carry that project on.
“From a National Squad perspective, Rhys, Andrew and myself have worked closely together for the last seven years and it is testament to the development structure that we bring in Marc to the National Squad from his role with the National Academy.”
Long added: “I would like to thank the WRU management and players for the past eight years.
“We have enjoyed unprecedented success with the national squad and that is something I am privileged to have been a part of. We have implemented a structure that benefits the whole game and developed analysts who have filled more than 50 positions around the world in the elite game and the pathway structure will benefit the game in the coming years.
“I believe I leave the department and team in very safe and experienced hands.
“I’m excited about the role that lies ahead with the FA and managing their analysis and insight structures and pathways.”
