Published: Friday, 18th July, 2008 12:00
New coach Toby's pledge to win jugs for Irish
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READING-based London Irish today named Toby Booth as head coach, assisted by England World Cup winner Mike Catt.
Booth, who was the London Irish and England Saxons forwards coach, replaces Brian Smith who has moved in the opposite direction to join the English setup under Martin Johnston.
London Irish chairman Andrew Coppel said: “It was always our preference to promote internally provided we had the right calibre of staff, reflecting capability, experience and potential.
“These appointments also provide vital continuity as we seek to build on the momentum of the last two years to enable us to consistently challenge for honours and become the club of choice.”
Booth, 39, said, “We plan to operate an integrated approach among the coaches with each supporting and challenging the other.
“The positive approach to playing the game that has been the hallmark of London Irish in recent seasons will continue.
“The new season will bring fresh challenges, not least the introduction of the new experimental law variations, however we’re ready to embrace them and take the club forward. Our priority will be to perform well in the Guinness Premiership and in Europe and win some overdue silverware.”
He added: “We have has a great squad which is capable of competing at the highest level and will look to strengthen it with quality players as required over coming months.”
And 36-year-old Catt said: “I’ve enjoyed my four seasons at London Irish and am really looking forward to my expanded role.
“There comes a time in every player’s career where he has to look to the future. For me moving into full time coaching is a natural progression and I’m pleased to have the opportunity of doing so.
“We have a very talented set of young backs with the potential to make a real impact at European and international level; it will be rewarding to play a part in helping them to get there.”
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