Eric Elwood returns to Connacht as domestic manager

Eric Elwood is to return to Connacht after the the former player and coach was appointed as domestic rugby manager for the province.

The 45-year-old from Galway was involved as player, assistant coach and coach with Connacht between 1995 and 2013, stepping down from the position as head coach citing a need “for me to to have a change and time for the province to have a change as well.”

Elwood, who has been working with pharmaceuticals company Omega Pharma for the past year, will return to the Sportsground to take up the new role at the start of the new year.

“I’m really looking forward to starting in this new role in the new year. It will certainly be different for me but that is what excites me about it,” said the former Ireland outhalf. “Connacht Rugby has been a huge part of my life and I have always understood the importance of the domestic game in the future of Connacht Rugby as a whole.”

Commenting on the appointment, Connacht chief executive Willie Ruane said: "This is fantastic news for Connacht Rugby. Domestic Rugby is an area we identified as vital in moving the province forward. Eric will be responsible for growing the game of rugby across the entire province from grassroots level. He is someone with huge knowledge and passion for the game and for Connacht Rugby in particular and we are delighted to have him back involved in the organisation."

Meanwhile, Ulster have signed loosehead prop Andrew Warwick up to a two-year deal, his first senior contract with the province.

The 23 year-old is a graduate of the Ulster Academy and made his debut for the province as a second-half substitute against Cardiff Blues in the Arms Park in March.

Since then the Ballymena man has become a key member of the squad, making 16 appearances for Ulster, eight of which have been starts.

Warwick has also represented Ulster Schools and Ulster under-20s.

Commenting on his new contract, Andrew said: “When I joined the Academy my aims were to play for the first team and to sign a professional contract with Ulster. I am delighted now to have achieved both those things.

“The past nine months have been incredible. I am extremely proud to represent Ulster and I look forward to helping the team be successful in the coming seasons.”

Ulster's team manager, Bryn Cunningham, added: "Andrew has made the step up from Academy prospect to first team regular with ease and he is now a highly important player for us in a key position.

“It is crucial for Ulster Rugby moving forward that we retain a core group of home grown talent who possess an ambition that fits in with our culture.

“Andrew is one of those players and we are delighted he has committed to two years.”