Clarke lands new role in Texas

FORMER Ospreys boss Allen Clarke has been appointed as director of rugby and head coach of Dallas Jackals.

The northern Irishman officially left the Welsh region in December and has worked as a coaching consultant at Ystradgynlais RFC.

But it has been confirmed Clarke has returned to the professional game as coach of the Texas club ahead of its inaugural season in Major League Rugby.

“I’m delighted to be appointed director of rugby for the Dallas Jackals,” he said.

“When I spoke with Phil Camm and Elaine Vassie, I was impressed with the club’s vision, their plans for the development of rugby in the area and their personal integrity.

“Rugby is a growing sport in America and the quality of the MLR is improving at a rapid rate each year.

“I’m looking forward to immersing myself in the culture of Texas, building connections with the community and playing my part in the growth of rugby in Dallas.

“We have a lot of work to do, but everybody is determined to work tirelessly to achieve success on and off the field.”

Ex-Ireland hooker Clarke held roles with Ulster and the IRFU before joining the Ospreys as a forwards coach under Steve Tandy in 2017.

He was made head coach of the Liberty Stadium outfit in April 2018, but was axed in October 2019 following the Ospreys’ woeful start to the current campaign.

Ospreys chairman Rob Davies claimed the situation became “a matter of personal conduct”.