Happy to stay ‘fora while yet
IRISH Rugby’s performance director David Nucifora will not be following Joe Schmidt out the exit door after the World Cup.
Aussie Nucifora has worked in tandem with Schmidt since his appointment in April 2014 and has extended his current contract to the end of the 2021/22 season.
The 57-year-old has been hugely effective in terms of dealing with the contracts of Ireland’s stars. He has also played a key role in player movement across the provinces as well as being closely involved in developing all aspects of the professional game in
Ireland.
Nucifora, who previously performed a similar role in his own country, has been in situ during a period of unprecedented success for Irish teams.
The men’s national side has claimed two 6 Nations titles (2015 and 2018) and historic victories over New Zealand, Australia and South Africa, while there has been a litany of success for the provinces, the women’s national team and underage sides.
Nucifora said: “I’m delighted to sign up for another three years, I’m excited about the prospect of driving further advancements in Irish Rugby’s performance pathway.
“Over the coming months we’ll see the culmination of a number of years’ work on a couple of very important projects.”
IRFU CEO Philip Browne added: “David has delivered across a huge number of areas in that regard and Irish Rugby is in a better place for the experience, leadership and passion he has brought to the role.”