McGurn snapped up by Leinster

Michael McGurn should help improve fitness at Leinster

Fermanagh-born fitness guru Mick McGurn is to link up with the Leinster rugby squad.

The vastly-experienced McGurn is currently St Helen's Rugby League conditioning coach.

McGurn, in his early 30s, was a useful middle-distance runner before moving to America to gain a Sports Science degree.

He was recently asked by new Fermanagh county manager Dominic Corrigan to help knock the squad into shape for next season.

McGurn is at present setting up a summer training camp in Marbella for St Helen's in readiness for the new SuperLeague season.

However, McGurn is expected home at the weekend to oversee preparations for Fermanagh's friendly with Armagh to celebrate new sports facilities at Derrynoose.

Highly praised

McGurn has been in demand since he began working as fitness coach to Hull Kingston Rovers a number of years ago.

He has also been responsible for knocking the footballers of Hull City into shape.

After a spell at Leeds Rhinos he was involved with Everton before moving to his present post.

He was highly praised for his behind-the-scenes work which helped St Helen's to the World Club title last season.

I'm really delighted to be based back in Ireland

Mick McGurn

McGurn has been offered a three-year contract with Leinster.

"I'm still going to be involved with Fermanagh," said McGurn.

"I'm going to be living in Dublin and it will be easy to nip up to Enniskillen.

"I'm really delighted to be based back in Ireland.

"I had long protracted talks with Leinster and I have to say, that I've been very, very impressed with the Leinster set-up and in particular their coach Matt Williams.

"It's not hard to see that Irish rugby is on the up and I'm looking forward to being part of the scene," added McGurn.