Enniskillen have taken a bold step in their quest for an immediate return to Qualifying League One this season, with the appointment of Patrick Garat as coach.
Patrick is from St Vincent de Tyrosse, in southwest France, and played professional rugby with his local club, US Tyrosse, until 1995 when he embarked on his coaching career with the club’s under-20 group. He then was coaxed out of retirement for another few seasons to appear for amateur club Leon a few miles further north.
Before coming to Ireland, Patrick returned to US Tyrosse to coach for two years, in the third tier of French rugby, just losing out on promotion in a play-off game.
Since his arrival, Patrick has been involved with Sligo’s under-16 side before helping at Ballyshannon last season.
Also pictured is new club captain, Alan Wilkinson, and 1st XV team manager, Pat Cassidy.
This season will be a big challenge for the club and nothing short of 100% will do if they want to return to Qualifying One.
