Dragons Rugby Club and Head Coach Dai Flanagan Part Ways

Dai Flanagan, a former fly-half for Cardiff and Ospreys, has departed from his position as head coach of the Dragons. Assistant coach Filo Tiatia will assume the role on an interim basis. The Newport-based rugby organization confirmed that the separation was by mutual consent and effective immediately. The Dragons further commented, stating: “The decision has been mutually agreed by all parties following extensive discussions regarding the club’s performance and future direction.” Flanagan, aged 39, departs his role with the Dragons currently positioned as the lowest-ranked Welsh team in the United Rugby Championship (URC). The team holds the 15th spot in the league standings, with only Zebre positioned lower. This season, they have recorded one victory and five defeats. The Dragons also concluded the 2022-23 campaign in 15th place, a position they also held last season. In an official statement, the Dragons conveyed: “We thank Dai for his contribution, professionalism, and dedication to Dragons RFC throughout his time at the club and wish him and his family well for the future.” Filo Tiatia, designated as interim head coach, is set to be “supported by the current coaching staff”. Flanagan transitioned from his position as Scarlets backs coach to assume the head coaching role at the Dragons in June 2022, a period when Dean Ryan served as director of rugby. Following Ryan’s extended departure, which concluded in January 2023, Flanagan assumed leadership and continued in the role thereafter. Despite ongoing declarations of hope for increased competitiveness from the Dragons, alongside intermittent victories, the team continues to be the least successful among Wales’ four professional rugby clubs. Given the pause in URC matches due to the autumn internationals, the Dragons’ subsequent fixture is scheduled against Cardiff at Rodney Parade on Saturday, November 30, commencing at 17:15 GMT.