Munster’s attack coach Mike Prendergast has officially confirmed his interest in stepping up to become the province’s new head coach. Speaking from Munster’s high-performance centre in Limerick, the former scrum-half revealed that he has applied for the position, following the departure of Graham Rowntree.
Prendergast has been with Munster since 2022, following an extensive coaching stint in France that included roles at Grenoble, Oyonnax, Stade Français, and Racing 92. His international experience, combined with his deep understanding of Munster’s ethos, makes him a strong contender for the job.
Prendergast, who recently signed a two-year extension to continue as attack coach, explained his decision to pursue the head coach role. Speaking to the Irish Independent, Prendergast said;
“It is, it is. It’s something I would have envisaged in my career,” he said. “I suppose you start out, you’re learning the ropes and the older I get, and the more environments and different head coaches that you work with, it’s something that gets you thinking a small bit.”
This isn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision for Prendergast, who has carefully built his coaching credentials over the years.
“It did over the last couple of years, but whatever decision is made, I’ve signed on for another two years,” he added. “I love doing the attack and it’s up to the club to make that decision and I’m sure they will.”
The province’s leadership is taking its time to ensure the right decision is made. Prendergast fully supports this measured process.
“The club have been very forthright that they want to take their time in doing that and make sure it’s the right decision, which we all completely respect,” he said.
While he acknowledges that the selection process is competitive, Prendergast is clear in his ambitions: “But if you’re asking me, yes, my name is in the hat and I’m sure along with a lot of other coaches around the place.”
As a Limerick native and a former Munster player, Prendergast’s connection to the province runs deep. His experience in developing dynamic attacking systems, honed in some of Europe’s most competitive leagues, positions him as a leading candidate. Should he step into the head coach role, it is expected that current skills coach Mossy Lawler would take on increased responsibility for the attack.
This potential promotion marks an exciting chapter in Munster’s journey as they seek to maintain their position among Europe’s elite. The decision now lies in the hands of Munster’s leadership, and fans will eagerly await news of the club’s next head coach.
