USA Rugby
O'Sullivan lands Eagles job
Scrum.com
March 5, 2009
Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan, France v Ireland, Six Nations Championship, Stade de France, February 9, 2008
Eddie O'Sullivan has been confirmed as the new USA coach © Getty Images
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Former Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan has taken up the reins as head coach of the USA national team following the recent departure of Scott Johnson, who has joined Magners League side Ospreys.

O'Sullivan previously worked for USA Rugby in the 1990s as a technical director and assistant before returning to Ireland. After graduating into the role of Ireland's head coach he led them during a hugely successful period, winning three Triple Crowns between 2004 and 2007. Following a disappointing Rugby World Cup in 2007 and a poor return in the 2008 Six Nations he resigned his post as Ireland coach.

"I am delighted to accept the invitation to coach the US Eagles," O'Sullivan said. "It is an exciting challenge, which comes at a crucial period when I share their ambitions to qualify for Rugby World Cup 2011.

"In re-joining USA Rugby I am going back to my coaching roots as it were and while I am delighted that much progress has been made since my last involvement, I am driven now by a determination that I share with the Eagles to demonstrate that USA Rugby has the resolve to establish its identity amongst the leading nations in the game."

O'Sullivan will be charged with developing the game in the US and widening the scope for players to beyond youth and collegiate level. With the recent success of the Sevens team in the IRB Sevens World Series he has a foundation to build on, and his appointment has been welcomed by US rugby chiefs.

"We are obviously delighted to announce Eddie as the new Eagles coach," USA Rugby chief executive Nigel Melville said. "He is knowledgeable about the American game and has an outstanding track record as an international coach. Eddie has worked with the world's top players and will bring enormous enthusiasm to the role."

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