Worcester Valkyries can today confirm the appointment of Roy Davies as their new Director of Rugby.
Davies arrives from Bristol Ladies Rugby having led them to a top-of-the-table finish in the Women’s Premiership last season, before they were narrowly defeated 17-8 by Aylesford Bulls Ladies in the Grand Final at Sixways.
The 35-year-old from Llanelli spent two years at Bristol, where he began as Forwards Coach before being promoted to Head Coach.
Davies has four years of experience coaching within the RFU Junior Academy and was Head Coach of Gloucestershire Senior Ladies.
Having also previously coached at Wells RFC and Brighton RFC, Davies used to play his rugby in the Gloucester Rugby Academy, and also at Hartpury College, Moseley and Lydney.
A Level Three qualified coach, Davies also has a PGCE in PE and a degree in Sports Coaching.
He said: “I’m extremely pleased to be joining a Club with such a rich history in the women’s game.
“After meeting the Board, it is clear that the intention is to create an outstanding player experience that will allow every player to develop to their potential and that very much aligns with my philosophy and values.”
Warriors Managing Director Gus Mackay added: “Roy has a wealth of experience in the game and more importantly the women’s game.
“He’s shown his credentials having led Bristol to last season’s Women’s Premiership final and hopefully he can now turn the fortunes of the Valkyries and help them achieve their goal of becoming a top-end side in the new Super Rugby competition.”
Valkyries won the Women’s Premiership back in 2012, becoming the first side outside of London to do so but haven’t managed to repeat the feat since, having finished fifth in last season’s competition and missing out on the play-offs.
Next season they head into the inaugural Women’s Super Rugby season with Davies at the helm.
Davies continued: “There is an excellent group of players at Worcester and I look forward to working with them to build something special that allows us to achieve top-four status on a consistent basis.
“With the creation of Super Rugby, the RFU have made a clear commitment to raising standards and professionalising the women’s game and it’s an exciting time to be involved.”
The remainder of the Valkyries backroom team is still being finalised with appointments to be made in the near future.
Valkyries’ pre-season will begin on Tuesday 18 July, with sessions running every Tuesday and Thursday.
Valkyries will also be running a series of open trials throughout pre-season for both experienced players and talented athletes who feel they have something to offer the game. Anyone who is interested in joining the Valkyries is encouraged to email rndavies17@hotmail.com.