RGC 1404 coach Josh Leach has praised Rachel Taylor after she was appointed to the Welsh women’s team coaching staff.

The decorated former player-turned coach has made a fantastic start to her career away from the pitch, with her efforts as Colwyn Bay’s first XV manager seeing a stark turnaround in the team’s fortunes.

This did not go unnoticed by the Welsh Rugby Union, who offered Taylor the role of skills coach for the national set-up, which she has accepted.

Her new role means Taylor won’t be as involved in the development of aspiring stars in the Gogs’ Academy system, but Leach is confident she is going to bring a significant amount to the role.

Speaking to the RGC website, Leach said: “I'm sure everyone in North Wales wishes Rachel the very best in her new position.

“Women's rugby is going to grow quickly with increasing investment, so this role is an exciting opportunity for Rach to be a part of that, and to continue to develop her coaching through a World Cup campaign.

"Rach is one of the most celebrated players of the women's international game, and will now be able to offer her experience and learnings to the young female players within the National programme. “She brought a huge amount of energy and a fresh set of eyes into the Academy, whilst leading the planning and delivery within the age-grade programme, and having a really positive impact on those involved.

“Whilst we are all sorry she won't be so heavily involved anymore, we wish her nothing but best in her new job."

This is yet another feather in the cap of Taylor, who is widely respected within the domestic game thanks to her sterling performances as a player, something that has made a smooth transition to a coaching environment.