By David Parsons
What do you get when you add Bradley Davies to James Hook, Paul James and Andrew Bishop? A ‘Dream Team’ of coaches to help bring through the next generation of Ospreys stars.
After 66 Welsh caps and more than 210 professional games for Cardiff Blues, Wasps and Ospreys, the 36-year-old Davies is all set to become the latest international ex-pro to be attached to the backroom staff at his old region after hanging up his boots.
Bradley Davies has retired after an impressive career! 👏
The lock made his final appearance in an action-packed match between Swansea and Barbarians 🏉
Wales 🏴
Cardiff 🔵
Wasps 🐝
Ospreys ⚫#BBCRugby pic.twitter.com/uRxIr8hlmC— BBC ScrumV (@BBCScrumV) May 31, 2023
Not only that, Davies will also act as assistant coach to Tom Smith at Bridgend in the Indigo Premiership next season. He might even fit in the odd game with home club Beddau as well.
“I’ve played professional rugby for the best part of 20 years and this is the natural next step for me, I have a real passion for coaching,” said Davies.
“I’ve already done a little bit of coaching with the Ospreys and the Polish national team and I can’t wait to get started full time now I’ve hung up my boots
“The set piece, especially the line-out, is my specialist area and I’m a very ambitious and forward thinking person. I feel I can add real value at Bridgend, while also learning my trade alongside an outstanding young group of coaches.
“My most important job will be to make Bridgend an excellent set piece team with a pack of forwards that are feared and respected thought out the league. It’s all about helping the side to reach the top end of the Premiership playing exciting and winning rugby.”
Davies will bring with him a wealth of experience into his new roles having played at the highest level for Cardiff Blues, Wasps and the Ospreys. He also captained Wales on their 2013 tour to Japan.
“It’s great news that we’ve got Bradley Davies joining our coaching group at Bridgend. He has always had an interest in coaching, having performed a number of duties at the Ospreys whilst still playing,” said Ravens head coach, Tom Smith.
“He enjoyed an illustrious playing career, forged through plenty of hard work and grit, and I’m sure he’ll show the same work ethic and determination in his coaching.”
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