Connacht coach Steph Nel has been rewarded with a new three-year contract after turning round the province's fortunes.
In his first two years in charge, the South African developed a successful young side, which last season reached the Celtic League quarter-finals and enjoyed a promising run in the Parker Pen Shield.
Nel, who was also assistant to Ireland A coach Matt Williams last season, believes the future for Connacht is bright.
"We have worked hard on and off the pitch over the past two seasons. The important thing now is that we continue to build on the level of progress," he said.
"We have a very young side but they have displayed great maturity and with people like Eric Elwood around to lead the way, we can approach the new season with confidence. This is an exciting time for Connacht rugby".