Pook joins Ireland back-up team

Welshman Paul Pook joins the Ireland back-up staff

Welshman Paul Pook is the new strength and conditioning coach of the senior Ireland international squad.

Former Harlequins head of fitness for five years, Pook has a deal that will take him up to the 2011 World Cup.

Pook, who takes over from Ospreys' Mick McGurn, was a high performance consultant with the Ireland U21 side.

"Paul brings experience in this area and importantly a good understanding and knowledge of working with the provinces," said coach Declan Kidney.

"As with all of the other areas of coaching, we want to be able to work closely with the provinces to allow a smooth transition for the players into and out of the Ireland team.

"With that in mind, fitness and conditioning is a key element to this and Paul will be important in this respect and together with the level of expertise that he brings."

Took said he is delighted in his appointment.

"To get the opportunity to work with such a talented group of professional players and coaches is an exciting prospect.

"My experience of working with the Irish players has been very positive and this is a testament to the excellent work of the provincial fitness staff."

Originally a native of Wales, the former professional player and Wales Sevens representative has worked in the field of sports science and fitness since 1994.

He worked with professional outfit Ebbw Vale for a couple of years and the Wales U21 team from 1998 to 2001 before moving to the Stoop.