Alun Carter joins Pooler as Director of Rugby

Pontypool RFC is pleased to announce that it has appointed Alun Carter as the club’s Director of Rugby.

A former Wales international rugby player consistently working at the highest level of the game since rugby union went professional in 1995, Carter, 49, assumes the role having made 141 appearances for Pontypool RFC as a player and most recently serving as the club’s Rugby Consultant throughout the 2013/2014 season.

“It is a huge privilege to be asked to perform the role of Director of Rugby at my hometown club, Pontypool RFC,” said Carter. “I am fully aware of the support that Peter Jeffreys and Ben Jeffreys have given and would like to thank them for this opportunity to develop and bring out the best from the players currently in possession of this valued jersey.”

“We have an excellent back room staff and team spirit is strong following the good work of Head Coach Mike Hook in this past season. It counts for nothing come September 1^stand our goal will be to play every game to the best of our ability, and I will look to give the direction needed to take us forward as individuals and as a team. The people of Pontypool and the Eastern Valley are part of this journey and I would encourage you to come and support us next season.”

As an analyst, Carter worked for the Wales national team and the 2001 British and Irish Lions squad. His role involved working with coaches Kevin Bowring, Graham Henry, Steve Hansen, Mike Ruddock, Richard Hill and Phil Larder over a 15-year period. This experience offered Carter a unique insight into what characterises successful performance and was further enhanced in recent years when he operated as Team Manager at Worcester Warriors in the English Premiership.

Pontypool RFC Chief Executive, Peter Jeffreys, said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Alun to his new role as Director of Rugby. Alun is a consummate professional who has achieved many remarkable things in his professional rugby career, and combining those achievements with the raw passion and appreciation that he has for the history and culture of Pontypool RFC provides a perfect platform for the club to continue to develop strongly next season.”

“Everybody at the club has worked exceptionally hard over the last two seasons to ensure that Pontypool RFC can thrive once again at the highest level of competition, and I think that the combination of Alun and our fantastic group of coaches, support staff, medical personnel, squad, volunteers and supporters will only serve to see the club achieve many great things.”

Carter will formally commence his role as Director of Rugby from July 1^st 2014 during the beginning of pre-season training, in preparation for the 2014/2015 season.