I wanted pro deals long ago – Phillips

FORMER Wales Women head coach Rowland Phillips has revealed he requested professional contracts for his players at least three years ago before WRU performance director Nigel Walker finally introduced them this year.

Phillips, who is returning to rugby as Merthyr RFC’s new head coach – replacing Dale McIntosh – after a two-year hiatus, officially left the Welsh Rugby Union in March 2020 but had been absent from his position since 2019.

“Professional rugby was something we campaigned for back then, so it’s better late than never,” Phillips told the BBC. “That was definitely the way forward and Nigel Walker has taken that and listened to people. He has taken that ambition and done something about it.

“It has been fantastic and is starting to bring them in line with the professional teams by giving them the best opportunity to prepare. “The gulf is huge between amateur and professional sides. “There is now a lot of pressure on these girls with people talking about them being fully professional, but it has only really been since January.”

Phillips’ daughter, former Wales captain Carys, is one of 12 players to be awarded full-time professional contracts, while a dozen more have signed part-time deals.

The former Wales international will now take charge of the Welsh Premiership Ironmen next season, saying of Sir Stan Thomas’ approach: “I was surprised initially but happy to take up the opportunity. Merthyr have been a force in the Premiership in recent years and I am expecting to take on a strong team and hope to continue with the success that has already been built.”

Glasgow scrum-half Sean Kennedy has signed a deal that will keep him at Scotstoun next season.

The former Alloa, Edinburgh and London Irish player has made 19 appearances during two spells with Warriors.

The 30-year-old told the club website: “I’m happy to be staying with the club.

“I enjoy coming to work everyday – it’s a great club with great people.

“There’s a strong group of scrum-halves at the club and it’s great to compete against them every week for the jersey. Despite being a more senior player, I learn new things every day and I have a great time doing it.

“The club feels like we’re building towards something and I’m looking forward to continuing to be a part of it.”

Head coach Danny Wilson added: “Sean is an integral part of our squad.

“He’s an extremely good professional who’s played well for us when he’s had his opportunity.”