Sean Lynn is relishing the challenge of leading Wales into the Guinness Women’s Six Nations, fresh from his historic triumph with Gloucester-Hartpury.
The newly appointed Wales Women’s head coach - who takes his team to Scotland for the tournament opener this weekend - capped off his tenure at the English club in spectacular fashion, guiding them to an unprecedented third consecutive Professional Women’s Rugby title.
His final game in charge last Sunday saw Gloucester-Hartpury overturn a 19-5 deficit against Saracens to secure a commanding 34-19 victory at the StoneX Stadium.
The achievement cemented Lynn’s legacy at the club and provided a fitting send-off as he now shifts his full focus to Wales.
“To finish this stint off with Gloucester-Hartpury with a three-peat is very special. I can’t fault the players and it’s a special club,” said Lynn, reflecting on his final match.
“I keep on saying it’s not about me. The PWR is just growing and growing, and it was a real spectacle out there. To have my family in the huddle at the end shows that dreams do come true.”
Lynn’s departure from Gloucester-Hartpury marks the end of nearly two decades of involvement, but he now steps into what he considers his ultimate coaching role.
With the match against Scotland fast approaching, he is joined in camp by five of his Gloucester-Hartpury stars: Hannah Jones, Lleucu George, Kate Williams, Bethan Lewis, and Meg Davies.
The influence of Lynn’s leadership has already left a lasting impact on his players, and they are eager to see his philosophy carried on to the international stage.
“It’s the connections Lynny helps us create, his family is in and around training at games that make him different. My dad comes and chats with Lynny after games,” explained Wales back row forward Bethan Lewis.
“Family is important to him. He’s a really good man, which helps, and he gets good people in the right places. That’s across the board, from players to staff.”
READ MORE: Sean Lynn Adds Wales-Based Flavour To Six Nations Squad
Hannah Jones, whom Lynn has already reappointed as Wales captain, shares that enthusiasm.
“He’s the right person for the job for sure. Since he’s been announced, I’ve been excited to get my Welsh jersey back on again,” said Jones.
“We talk about results, and we talk about who’s going to win but a big result for me as captain is just seeing the girls happy in a Welsh shirt and enjoying their rugby in a Welsh environment again.
“As a Gloucester-Hartpury player I know what a good environment is. I know what it should feel like and I’ve full faith in the people we now have in place – you’re going to see a different side to us.
“I feel like a massive weight has been lifted off my shoulders and I can just play rugby again and not have to deal with all this nonsense behind the scenes.”
READ MORE: Hannah Jones Tells Wales It Is Time To Deliver
With the Six Nations campaign set to begin in Edinburgh, Lynn’s focus is now on transferring that club success onto the international stage.
Having balanced dual responsibilities with Gloucester-Hartpury and Wales since his appointment in January, he now has his full attention on leading Wales through the tournament and preparing for the World Cup later this year.
