The former Newport and Swansea playmaker – linking back up with the region seven years after he left to head up the S&C team at the Dragons – joined Wales as the national squad strength and conditioning coach for the 2017 Six Nations through to the conclusion of the recent two-Test tour against Tonga and Samoa.
“I would like to thank the Welsh national team management, in particular Robin McBryde, Rob Howley and Alan Phillips,” says Lawson, who recently worked with Filo Tiatia at Japan’s Toyota Verblitz. “The Six Nations was a great experience for me, and the summer tour was exceptional – made all the more enjoyable due to the professionalism and hospitality I’ve encountered.”
This summer, a young Wales team registered victories against Tonga and Samoa in tough conditions, and Lawson says he’s been impressed by what he’s seen from the next generation of international players.
“It’s very encouraging for Welsh rugby to see young professionals with such composure in really difficult circumstances,” he says. “The likes of Adam Beard, Seb Davies, Sam Davies and many others showed maturity beyond their years. I also thought that Jamie Roberts was a class act both on and off the pitch, and was the real heartbeat of the tour party.”
Lawson has been working alongside Wales’ interim head of physical performance, former Wales and Ospreys hooker Huw Bennett, over the past months. “Working closely with Huw has been a pleasure: his enthusiasm and drive were infectious, which positively influenced the whole squad.”
As for his move to the Liberty Stadium, he says: “I’m excited to head into my next challenge with Ospreys, which is already in full swing. I’m very motivated to continue working with world-class players and staff.”
