Nathan, a former pupil of Methodist College Belfast and a graduate from University of Ulster, comes at a time when women’s rugby is in a boom. 
Although an active player, Nathan has found the time to begin his coaching career, starting at the early age of 19.  He began with U12 school boy rugby and progressed up the ranks to become an assistant coach to a 1st XV whilst he was studying at University.  During this period Nathan vice-captained and captained the University 1st XV and in his free time re-established the women’s rugby club through which he gained his first experience of women’s rugby. 

On returning from England where he qualified as a teacher, Nathan took up the post of Youth Development Officer with Rainey Old Boys RFC for a period of two years.  Within that time he established teams ranging from U14-U18, an academy to train the players with potential (one of whom is now on the American U19 Squad) and the beginning of a women’s team.  During this period, Nathan took charge of the University of Ulster Coleraine Senior men’s XV giving him his first taste of senior rugby coaching. 

On leaving his development post at Rainey, Nathan was given the honour of coaching the Senior Ulster Ladies Squad for their Inter-provincial Championship in 2005.  Since then he has accepted the position for another 2 years to build on the squads great efforts last season. 

The commitment, enthusiasm and skill shown by many ladies Nathan has coached made his decision to apply and then accept the women’s development post extremely easy.  When asked of his thoughts for the future, he remarked:

“There are so many great initiatives already been put in place to give a structure for young girls to develop their skills and many have so much natural talent.  I firmly believe if the interest is kept in these players, which is why I’m here, the women’s rugby in Ulster will be a force to be reckoned with in the future.”  

Nathan also stated that he was very excited about the new Ulster U18 squad being set-up this year and hopes that the girls will go to the Regional Development Squads to become part of this new initiative.

 Nathan has been in the post since November and is readily available if your school wants rugby.  Contact the development office in the Ulster Branch on 028 9049 3111 ext 238 for more information about this opportunity.