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The 38-year-old will join Tandy’s coaching setup on a full-time basis, having worked with Wales during the autumn and Six Nations campaigns
Wales legend Dan Lydiate has left the Dragons to join the national team’s coaching team in a full-time role.
Lydiate will join Tandy’s coaching staff as a specialist coach focusing on defensive contact skills, having worked with Wales on secondment for the last two campaigns. His role is said to include the “technical development and delivery for tackle, assistant tackle and post-contact elements”.
The move to the national team marks a rapid rise in coaching for the mid Walian, having only hung up his boots last year.
The 2012 Six Nations player of the tournament had taken some initial steps into coaching – working as a tackle area specialist while still playing at the Men of Gwent.
After one season in a full-time role at Rodney Parade, the 72-cap back-row – who also featured in all three Tests for the Lions in 2013 – will move into the Test arena as a coach.
“I have enjoyed my experience with Dragons first as a player-coach then as a full-time coach,” said Lydiate. “I’ve learnt a huge amount and am grateful to have been able to combine my club coaching with an interim role with Wales this season.
“It’s an incredible honour to have the opportunity to move into a full-time role with Wales. I’m excited not only to continue working with Steve and the group, but also take on a broader remit to help with the development of players outside of camp as well.”
Lydiate will start his role this summer after the end of the current URC season, where he will work closely with new defence coach Peter Murchie.
“It’s great to have Dan join us now on a full-time basis,” said Tandy. “He has done a really good job around the contact area but also with the mindset of the group.
“He has a very natural style and a huge amount to offer. I think he and Pete [Murchie] will really complement each other working together with the squad in camp. Beyond that, Dan’s approach and influence will be key in helping us develop players week-on-week outside of international windows.”
Dragons head coach Filo Tiatia wished Lydiate well after the news was confirmed, saying: “Dan has been a fantastic servant for our club, as both a player with over a century of appearances, and then most recently as part of the coaching staff over the last two seasons.
“He is a top man and someone who deeply cares for those around him and within our set-up.
“Dan works tirelessly to improve every player he works with, no matter if they are a senior professional or a young Academy prospect, as he looks to pass on his wealth of knowledge and expertise.
“He now has a fantastic opportunity to link-up with Wales on a full-time basis and leaves at the end of this season with our full support. Wales are lucky to have him.
“Dan will always be a Dragons legend to our supporters, and I know they will join me in wishing him well as we look forward to welcoming back to Rodney Parade in his new capacity in the years ahead.”
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