A FORMER Sale Sharks player has been appointed as a sports coach at Colwyn Bay school.

Rob O’Donnell will provide expert rugby and strength and conditioning coaching to pupils at Rydal Penrhos School on a permanent basis. He had previously taken on the role on a temporary basis in 2019.

The retired rugby union professional operated on both sides of the scrum for Waterloo before making 35 appearances for Premiership Rugby side Sale.

Mr O’Donnell also had a two-year spell at Rotherham Titans and enjoyed stints at Worcester Warriors and Yorkshire Carnegie.

A spokesperson for Rydal Penrhos School said: “Even though there is no substitute for competition, pupils are continuing to develop in their areas of interest as part of a fulfilling sporting provision and will ensure they are ready to hit the ground running when fixtures are permitted to resume.

“This provision has been enhanced by the appointment of Rob O’Donnell as the school’s new sports coach.”