Cardiff Rugby are delighted to confirm the appointment of Matthew Morgan in an exciting new role working across the academy and with Cardiff University. 

The dual position is one of the first initiatives from the partnership between the two iconic Cardiff institutions, announced earlier this month.

Morgan came out on top of a competitive recruitment process and returned to the Arms Park this week.

Since retiring from the game with more than 200 senior appearances for Cardiff, Ospreys and Bristol Bears, the former Wales international has immersed himself in coaching opportunities.

He is currently an assistant coach at Bridgend Ravens, which he will combine with his new role, while he has also worked at Cardiff & Vale College. 

Cardiff Rugby academy manager, Gruff Rees said: “This is a unique and exciting opportunity for ourselves, Cardiff University and Matthew. 

“We’ve always worked with the universities but on a more informal basis, reacting to students placements and trying to signpost some of our pathway guys to the opportunities. 

“But having this more formal partnership is great. There’s more substance behind it and this is a really great opportunity for Matthew, in a dual role which we are really excited about.

“It really connects us on a week-to-week basis in terms of working closely with Chris Davies and his staff, not just on individual players, but in terms of support, questioning each other and coaching processes while it benefits people across the programs whether in analysis, S&C or other areas.

“We have a Russell Group University on our doorstep, and we have to make the most of that. It gives us a real opportunity strategically to make a difference.”

Morgan has already begun working with Cardiff’s academy and will link up with Cardiff University’s Rugby Club this week.

And having spent so much of his playing career at the Arms Park, he is also relishing the opportunity to give something back, while taking the next step in his coaching career.

He said: “I’m very excited. I’ve had a warm welcome since I came back in and it’s good to see a couple of new faces here. Now I’m just looking forward to getting stuck into this exciting opportunity. 

“I’ve just been trying to get as much experience as I can so while coaching Bridgend, I’ve also been working as a school, which has been brilliant for me and that’s really set me up for a job like this working with academy boys and university students.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with some fantastic coaches throughout my career, and I have taken little bits from all of them but the biggest one was Matt Sherratt. 

“I was fortunate to work with Jockey for 10 years and I took so much from that and try to use in my own different way. 

“It’s all about building trust and relationships to get the best out of these young players and help them make the most of every opportunity through the pathway.

“Being split across Cardiff’s academy and the university is absolutely perfect for me. There are some outstanding talents here in the academy, many I’ve worked with or watch in the Schools and College league and I’m looking forward to meeting the university boys. 

“There’s a fantastic set-up at the university so I’m looking forward to building my exposure and experience there and working with Chirs and his team.”

Morgan, who retired in 2023 following 122 appearances for the Blue & Blacks, will work specifically with the junior academy alongside Saul Nelson and Josh Turnbull, while offering specialist support to specific players following development plans at schools and colleges.

He will also have a role with wider pathway projects, including Cardiff Rugby Under 18’s and 16’s, while his university role has a responsibility for team and backs attack.

The former full-back will step straight into action and support a promising start to Cardiff’s BUCS Super Rugby campaign with the next fixture against Nottingham on the October 28th.

Chris Davies, Cardiff University head of rugby, added: “First and foremost the partnership between Cardiff University and Cardiff Rugby is a major step forward, especially from a university point of view. In terms of recruitment, showing that clear pathway for prospective students is a massive statement for us. 

“Being able to appoint Matthew Morgan with his credibility, skill set and experience in rugby to provide that knowledge to the students is second to none.

“The quality of students in the program and the quality of coaches that we already have and are bringing into environment is brilliant. We are delighted to welcome Matthew and we are excited for him to help us as we continue to drive forward.”