From Manawatu to Munster

Although well known in rugby circles as Midleton s talismanic scrum half and Player/Coach, Damon Urlich takes on a new role as Club Development Officer with the IRFU Munster Branch

Damon Urlich

Club Development Officer

Munster Rugby IRFU

Although well known in rugby circles as Midleton s talismanic scrum half and Player/Coach, Damon Urlich takes on a new role with his appointment as Club Development Officer with the IRFU Munster Branch.

In an appointment aimed at helping to raise the profile of the game through the promotion and development of clubs, Urlich is relishing the prospect of working closely with clubs. I m very excited about this new challenge, and am looking forward to getting in on the ground and helping clubs plan for the long term. There is fantastic work being done in clubs all over Munster, and I want to assist them in consolidating and building for the future. Focusing on advising and supporting clubs on all aspects of club development, funding, facilities, administration and volunteer recruitment, the appointment will prove a welcome resource for clubs making plans for the future. With a degree in Business Studies and Commercial Management and a Diploma in Sports Management, such expertise both on an off the field is sure to be a huge asset to Munster Rugby.

Having first tasted all things Irish while on holiday in Cork in 1992, it was October of 1996 before Damon made the long term move with a stint of rugby firmly on his agenda. Joining Midleton on his arrival, his original plan of staying one or two seasons was put on the back burner as the club embarked on a fantastic run of success. Taking on the role of Player/Coach in 1997/98, the club captured four major trophies in the season, including the Junior Division One league title and promotion to Senior ranks, the successful defence of the Munster Junior Cup, the O Neill Cup and the Cork County Cup. Not finished there, they were promoted to Division Three the following year, and capped off a stunning run of success with promotion to Division Two in 2000. As Player/Coach, Urlich s role in Midleton s success was a significant one, and he continues to be hugely influential within the club both as a player and a leading figure.

In his formative years, his rugby was played in his local club, Oroua, where Jason Holland was a club mate. This connection accounts for Urlich s instrumental role in bringing Holland to Midleton and Munster. Showing talent from a young age, Urlich represented his province, Manawatu through the age grades, and played for a number of seasons on the Senior B team, finally breaking into the Senior squad the season prior to his arrival in Ireland.

Brimming with enthusiasm, Urlich is looking forward to this new challenge in his rugby career. I believe that this is very positive time for Munster and Irish Rugby, and that by working together we can contribute to a vibrant and successful club environment.