Cardiff set for summer coaching reshuffle with exit confirmed

Matt Sherratt's backroom staff at Cardiff is set to change over the summer with backs coach Richie Rees due to depart to take up a role as first director of the Haberdashers’ Monmouth School Sports Academy.

The former Wales scrum-half has spent the last six years with Cardiff in various coaching capacities to go with his five years spent at Cardiff Arms Park as a player.

Cardiff have confirmed that they already have a replacement lined up, which will be announced in due course.

Rees has five games remaining with Cardiff, beginning with Ulster on Friday in the United Rugby Championship.

“I'm delighted to be appointed the first director of HMS' new Sports Academy and look forward to using my experience to enhance the development of all the sporting students, from the most hesitant to the highest performing," Rees said after his exit was confirmed.

“I have had a great time at Cardiff Rugby and remain enormously grateful to the club for all of the support and opportunities they have given me both in my playing days and as a young coach but feel this is the right time to take on a new challenge.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with all the players, coaches and staff at the Arms Park and will leave with a heavy heart but one filled with so many great memories and experiences.

“I remain fiercely committed to Cardiff for the rest of the season and we are all focussed on having a strong end to the season.”

Sherratt added: “Richie is an excellent coach who has been a great servant to the club over a number of years in different positions - from a player to academy coach to an attack coach with the senior squad.

“He leaves with our best wishes to take up a new and exciting role at Monmouth School.”