Schmidt takes up post with World Rugby

JOE SCHMIDT will take on his first role since stepping down as Ireland head coach with the Kiwi appointed World Rugby’s director of rugby and high performance, WRITES CIAN TRACEY.

The 55-year old has not been short of job offers in recent months, and although he will not be directly involved in coaching, Schmidt believes the job will be a good fit.

The newly-created position, which commences in November, will see Schmidt responsible for the high performance, match officials and technical services functions, including player welfare as well as training and education.

Since ending his six-year tenure in charge of Ireland, Schmidt has remained in Dublin where World Rugby’s headquarters are based,

Schmidt has already been involved in World Rugby’s game development innovations by participating in several working groups, including guidance on player load and the current breakdown working group, which have been beneficial to player welfare.

In the role, Schmidt will lead a new high performance department, as World Rugby looks to further engage coaches, players and match officials in the decision-making process, as it seeks to make the sport simpler, safer and more enjoyable.

“I’m really looking forward to getting started. I’m passionate about the game and keen that people continue to enjoy being involved in it, from the young to the young at heart,” said Schmidt.

Schmidt will report to World Rugby chief executive Brett Gosper.