IRFU bring back Lynne Cantwell after 'phenomenal' stint in South Africa

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) has announced the appointment of Lynne Cantwell as Head of Women’s Strategy for Irish Rugby.

Cantwell is the most capped player in Irish women’s rugby history with 86 appearances and brings extensive experience to the role. The 43-year-old will take up her new position in January 2025.

During her career she played a key part in Ireland’s Six Nations Grand Slam win and their historic victory over New Zealand, as well as reaching the Rugby World Cup semi-final in 2014.

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She will leave her current role as Women’s High Performance Manager for South African Rugby after doing a ‘phenomenal’ job on the union’s women’s programme.

“I am excited about joining the IRFU at a time when there is much commitment and optimism around the Women’s game. Having started my own rugby career through the club and domestic game in Ireland, I am passionate about the journey for women and girls taking up and playing the sport and ensuring they experience a pathway from bottom to top that enables them to reach their full potential,” said Cantwell.

“I am grateful to the IRFU for facilitating me in concluding some of my work with the SARU during a transitionary period. I am looking forward to getting started in the New Year.”

IRFU Chief Executive, Kevin Potts, says: “Welcoming Lynne to Irish Rugby as Head of Women’s Strategy is a huge step in our journey, and I believe a major statement of intent about our collective ambition for Women’s Rugby in Ireland.

“Lynne’s leadership, both on and off the field, is exemplary and we are excited about the impact she will have in advancing Women’s Rugby across Ireland and internationally in the coming years.”

Cantwell joined SA Rugby in February 2021 and has been lauded by the union for her work. SA Rugby President Mark Alexander said: “The impact Lynne has had since she joined SA Rugby to resurrect the women’s programme was phenomenal, to say the least,” said Mr Alexander.

“Our desire and mission to elevate the women’s game was clear, but that was only be made possible by Lynne’s unrelenting passion and vision to get that job done. Her vast institutional knowledge of women’s rugby and international reputation opened new avenues for us and showed the way to so many positive outcomes.”