Rowntree gives first interview as Munster Head Coach

Graham Rowntree has given his first interview since taken over as Munster Head Coach. 

The 51 year-old has taken charge of the forwards at the club since 2019 but was promoted to the top job after Johann van Graan announced a move to the Premiership to take the reins at Bath. 

Rowntree opened up regarding the new challenge, his players and staff and emphasised the new responsibilities will not alter his character. 

“It’s a great club. I have been here three years now, it’s a special club, special people so when the possibility came up I was very interested. 

“It was quite a lengthy process as it should be for quite a big role, for a big club. It’s a feeling of pride to be able to lead such a great group of people.    

“I have learned from some great people, I have been very blessed from an early age in my coaching career to work with some good guys but what I have learned more than anything is to be yourself. That is certainly something I will be bringing to this role. You have got to be yourself always and that is what I plan to do with this role. 

“They [the players] know me, they know my coaching style, I know them all enough where I can be very honest with them so I will have to have some tough conversations with them selection-wise but they are used to that. I have always been very honest in my feedback, I don’t want to be changing as a bloke and as a coach. I understand the role will be different but I will be myself with these guys.” 

Regarding the new signings at the club, Rowntree was upbeat. 

“Good guys with the same coaching philosophy as I have. I did my research with players who have worked with these coaches before and other coaches who coached with them as well. We are quite aligned in our view of the game and how we want to structure the day and the environment. I’m delighted with them.”