UL Bohemians’ Lynne Cantwell appointed South Africa Women’s High Performance Manager

Lynne Canwell has been appointed as South African Rugby’s new high performance manager for women’s rugby.

Cantwell played 86 times at outside centre for Ireland and holds a degree in Sports and Exercise Science from UL. The new role comes as SA Rugby look to rejig their women’s rugby strategy in advance of the Rugby World Cup in September.

Former Munster director of rugby Rassie Erasmus was delighted to welcome the former UL Bohemians star to her new role.

“We have a rugby department and had a manager for women’s rugby, and we had done as much as we knew but we realised we lacked expertise and experience in women’s high performance area. We refocused our approach and we’re very glad and excited to be able to bring someone with Lynne’s experience and skills into the South African environment.

“We’re realistic about the fact that the short term impact might not be all that obvious in results but I have no doubt that the skills transfer and long term impact will be a massive benefit to women’s rugby in South Africa.”

Cantwell previously worked as an executive Committee Board member with Sport Ireland and this next step is an exciting one for the 39 year-old.

‘I am excited and naturally a bit nervous about the big move over to South Africa for me and my family, but I feel incredibly comforted by the warm welcome I have been given internally at SA Rugby, by the players and management, and the provincial CEOs.

‘I am intensely motivated to progress women’s rugby and women’s involvement in rugby, and the backing on a leadership level from Jurie, Rassie and Charles was central to my decision to join the team.’