Chambers leaving his Wales role for new post at Dragons

THE Dragons have appointed a key member of Warren Gatland’s backroom team as their new head of performance.

Dr Ryan Chambers is currently head of sports science with the Welsh Rugby Union where he has been employed for the past 15 years but will join the Dragons this summer.

Chambers has been a key part of four Rugby World Cup cycles with Wales, while he has also been involved in four Six Nations-winning campaigns.

During 2010-11 he held sport science and strength and conditioning roles at both the Scarlets and the national squad before being appointed as a sport scientist for the WRU in 2011-12.

“I’m really excited about the challenge and the environment Dai (Flanagan) is building at Dragons,” said Chambers.

“It’s a great time to be joining such an ambitious club, who are looking to make such positives strides, both on and off the field.

“A young and talented squad is being built at the Dragons and I’m looking forward playing my part in creating the very best environment for them to perform.

“I am extremely grateful to the Welsh Rugby Union for the last 15 years and thankful for the opportunity to work alongside Warren Gatland, Huw Bennett and other exceptional staff.

“We’ve enjoyed some amazing highs and I wish the team every success in the years ahead.”

The Dragons are recruiting aggressively ahead of next season with a raft of new signings, while Ospreys legend Filo Tiatia has been appointed defence coach.

There has also been a change in the boardroom, with David Wright replacing David Buttress as the new chairman of the club.

“We’re delighted that Ryan joins us,” said Dragons head coach Flanagan.

“He brings international experience from his time with Wales and has worked under coaches like Warren Gatland for many years.

“Ryan has been part of an outstanding player performance programme with the national side, and he brings real expertise and energy to our environment.

“He will drive up the standards and be a big asset to Dragons.”