Ballincollig RFC’s bid to cement their new status in the Women’s Energia All-Ireland League has received a boost with their appointment of former UL Bohemians head coach Fiona Hayes as their head of women’s rugby. Hayes, who met the Ballincollig players for the first time as a group last night, told the Irish Examiner she was excited by the opportunity to test her coaching mettle. Hayes, who will be replaced as Bohs head coach by former team-mate and assistant coach Niamh Briggs, admitted it was a wrench to leave after a 16-year association that also saw her play for and captain for the Limerick club. A lot of the players I inherited were already established players so to take new players who maybe haven’t played AIL at Ballincollig is exciting. Whether it works for me or not, I’m excited to see but I’m willing to take that step.

Source: Irish Examiner May 20, 2021 04:52 UTC