Best: Schmidt's Ulster role is a gradual path to sustained success
Rory Best, Ulster's general manager, said Joe Schmidt's new advisory role is aimed at building a long-term foundation for the province. Schmidt, who previously coached Ireland and Australia, will help develop coaching pathways and ensure a steady supply of players. Best believes Schmidt's experience will give Ulster a significant boost.
Schmidt's appointment follows a decorated coaching career spanning three nations, including a 2018 Grand Slam with Ireland and two European Cups with Leinster. His new role concentrates on developing Ulster's coaching pathway rather than day-to-day team management, with the goal of creating a sustainable pipeline of homegrown talent.
Ulster enter the new season after a mixed campaign that saw them finish ninth in the URC and lose the Challenge Cup final. Head coach Richie Murphy has reshaped the squad with several new signings across forward and back positions, while reintegrating Ireland internationals following their July commitments.
This appointment could signal a broader shift in how provincial rugby organisations approach long-term development, prioritising structural continuity over short-term results. Fans and players may benefit from improved coaching standards and player pathways, potentially strengthening Ulster's competitiveness in the URC and European competitions. However, the impact will depend on how effectively Schmidt's advisory role translates into tangible on-field progress, which may take several seasons to fully materialise.