Dragons RFC can confirm Dan Lydiate will leave his role at the club at the end of this season after being appointed to the Wales men’s coaching set up on a full-time basis as a specialist coach.
The former Wales international previously worked as part of the Wales men’s set up on an interim basis during the 2025 Quilter Nations Series and the 2026 Guinness Six Nations.
Lydiate will start his new role with Wales this summer after the conclusion of the BKT United Rugby Championship season.
Club legend Lydiate has enjoyed an incredible career with the Men of Gwent as both a player and coach and his impact has been praised by Head Coch Filo Tiatia.
He said: “Dan has been a fantastic servant for our club, as both a player with over a century of appearances, and then most recently as part of the coaching staff over the last two seasons.
“He is a top man and someone who deeply cares for those around him and within our set-up.
“Dan works tirelessly to improve every player he works with, no matter if they are a senior professional or a young Academy prospect, as he looks to pass on his wealth of knowledge and expertise.
“He now has a fantastic opportunity to link-up with Wales on a full-time basis and leaves at the end of this season with our full support. Wales are lucky to have him.
“Dan will always be a Dragons legend to our supporters, and I know they will join me in wishing him well as we look forward to welcoming back to Rodney Parade in his new capacity in the years ahead.”
Speaking about his appointment Lydiate added: “I have enjoyed my experience with Dragons first as a player-coach then as a full-time coach.
“I’ve learnt a huge amount and am grateful to have been able to combine my club coaching with an interim role with Wales this season.
“It’s an incredible honour to have the opportunity to move into a full-time role with Wales.
“I’m excited not only to continue working with Steve and the group, but also take on a broader remit to help with the development of players outside of camp as well.”
Dan will always be a Dragons legend to our supporters, and I know they will join me in wishing him well as we look forward to welcoming back to Rodney Parade in his new capacity in the years ahead...
