Former Ireland Rugby League international Anthony Leifi has joined Corinthians as U20's head coach.
With a track record of success and a serious passion for the game, Leifi, who spent the last couple of seasons coaching at Corrib RFC, is no stranger to Galway Corinthians RFC having donned the black, white and blue for many years when he first came to Ireland.
Leifi says he is "honoured to return to Corinthians, this time as a coach".
"This club was very good to me when I first moved from New Zealand to Galway in 2009 and I had many memorable seasons here as a player. It feels natural to be back in Corinthians' colours and I’m very excited to hit the ground running.
“The work that has gone into the Corinthians U20s setup over the past few years is enormous. A die-hard group of guys has gone above and beyond to ensure that U20's rugby has been a success at Corinthians and I’m blessed to get involved at this point. U20's rugby is on such a strong footing at the club and I’m grateful to get the opportunity to build on the great work that’s already been done.”
Operating under director of rugby Michael Harding, Leifi has put together a strong management team for the season ahead, which includes assistant coach, Spiddal native Morgan Ó’Conghaile.
“I want the lads to respect and trust each other both on and off the field, and it’s that culture of trust and brotherhood that’s going to take the Corinthians U20 jersey to an even better place."
Playing the majority of their rugby within Leinster competitions, Galway Corinthians U20s will have three shots at silverware this season - the U20 Connacht League, the Leinster JP Flanagan League, and the Leinster Cup.
Already they have enjoyed a flying start with a 38-7 win over the University of Galway in round one of the U20 Connacht League. Rounds two and three are away to Galwegians on Sunday (October 1 ), and away to Buccaneers on October 8.
