Alan Phillips Becomes Wales’ First Full-time Manager.

The WRU have today appointed Alan Phillips as Wales’ first full-time National Team Manager.
Capped 18-times by Wales, and a British Lions tourist in South Africa in 1980, Phillips became the Wales Team Manager on a part-time basis in June 2001, when he took over from David Pickering.
Speaking at today’s press-conference WRU secretary Dennis Gethin was delighted to announce the appointemnt of Phillips.
“The time is now right to have a full-time manager.
“We have been holding interviews for the post for quite a while now and considering his background we feel he is the right man to take-on this role.”
His appointment as Wales Team Manager was due to run through to the 2003 Rugby World Cup. His new contract will see him hold the full-time post until the 2007 World Cup.
Now 47, Phillips played 481 games in 15 seasons for Cardiff. He scored 162 tries and captained the club for two seasons. He helped Cardiff to win the WRU Challenge Cup five times.
“This job is a dream come true for me. I can’t wait to start and I’m looking forward to taking on the job,” said Phillips.
“It’s a challenge I didn’t want to miss out on having worked so closely with the Welsh coaching team over the past year.”
“I have never been frightened of putting my head on the block and the hard work that lies ahead of the Welsh management team and the players is an exciting prospect.
“The good times for Welsh rugby are just around the corner.”
Welsh coach Steve Hansen was also pleased to welcome Phillips on board.
“I’m delighted that Alan has been appointed on a full-time basis and I’m looking forward to working with him.”