Joe Launchbury arrives as Head of Academy

Worcester Warriors are delighted to announce the arrival of Joe Launchbury as the club’s new Head of Academy.

Joe arrives at the club after recently retiring from an illustrious playing career to head the new set-up, with details to follow on how the first few months will look for the Academy.

Launchbury started his rugby journey with Worthing in National Two South before making the move to Wasps.

After making his debut for Wasps in 2011, Launchbury went on to make over 130 appearances for the club across 11 years – including many years as captain.

Following Wasps entry into administration, he spent a season in Japan with Tokyo Verblitz before joining Harlequins, where he’s spent the past three seasons.

On the international stage, Launchbury won 70 caps for England, making his debut against Fiji in 2012 and went on to feature in two World Cups in 2015 and 2019.

Speaking ahead of joining the Warriors, Launchbury said, “It’s a really exciting time for me and for the club.”

“I’m really honoured to be here at the start of the journey for the Academy. It’s a club with a huge amount of history, especially in the academy area.”

“Working with the next generation, working with these younger players definitely excites me, and the opportunity to come here to Worcester was something I didn’t want to turn down.”

Warriors Head Coach Matt Everard added, “Joe is one of the best leaders I’ve worked with. He has added to every environment he’s been in and embodies high performance.”

“With his playing experience combined with his academy coaching experience at Wasps & Harlequins, he is a hugely exciting addition to the club.”

“This is a big step forward in nurturing all the local homegrown talent we are blessed with. We are looking forward to working with Joe to bring this to life.”

Stephen Vaughan, Worcester’s CEO commented on Joe’s arrival, “We are delighted to welcome Joe Launchbury as the new Head of the Worcester Warriors Academy.”

“The role attracted a lot of interest; however Joe's outstanding playing career, leadership qualities, and deep understanding of player development make him the ideal person to help shape the next generation of Warriors talent.”

“We are excited to have Joe join the club and look forward to the impact he will make across talent ID and our player pathway programme."