Dan Fish had been named head coach of Cardiff RFC following the club’s successful application to the new Elite Domestic Competition in Wales.
The Blue and Blacks cult hero has worked within the club’s academy and RFC set-up since retiring from the professional game in 2021.
He will continue to work under Gruff Rees, who remains Director of Rugby, and ensures full alignment of the programme as Cardiff Rugby Academy Manager.
Fish said: “I am really grateful for the opportunity to become head coach and looking forward to the season ahead. It is an exciting time for the club with a good group of academy players and senior semi-professional players, who pass on a huge amount of experience to the younger lads.
“We have a good coaching group and we are all looking forward to finding and developing the next Cam Winnett, Alex Mann and Mackenzie Martin.
“The new league structure will allow plenty of opportunities for players to develop and compete to a higher level and that’s something I am really looking forward to.
“We wish the retiring players and those moving on all the very best and thank them for everything they have given in a blue and black jersey. Last but not least, a special thank you to Spot, who I have had the pleasure of playing under and working alongside. It has been enjoyable and testing, and I look forward to seeing him at the Arms Park soon.”
The former full-back will be supported by newly appointed academy coach Josh Turnbull, who has taken up a role as line out and contact area coach. Craig Everett continues as defence coach while former Cardiff Met and age-grade coach Nick Fish becomes scrum coach.
Gruff Rees said: “It has been brilliant for us to drive the direction and support of Cardiff RFC over the past three seasons and we can reflect on many successes, notably the development opportunities provided and players thriving through the programme with excellent specialist support.
“We were very grateful to Steve Law for his time and commitment to the role over the past few years but have moved to create greater alignment through the entire club. But we are also excited to support Dan’s continuing coaching development and this role links clearly with his academy priorities while giving him a platform to show his high performance credentials. I have no doubt it is a role that he will thrive in and make a clear difference to the playing group as we push into the EDC.”