Uruguay has significantly strengthened its rugby coaching staff, reports Ignacio Chans. The team has welcomed former Pumas Juan Figallo and Leonardo Senatore, along with former Tero Joaquín Pastore. This trio joins the team under the leadership of new Head Coach Rodolfo Ambrosio.
Juan Figallo: From England to Uruguay
Juan Figallo returns to South America from England, where he recently left his coaching position at Saracens, a role focused on the Women’s team. The 36-year-old Figallo brings a wealth of experience, having won the English Premiership as a player and competed in three Rugby World Cups. Notably, he was awarded the best player in his pool at the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
In his new role in Uruguay, Figallo takes on the responsibility of Uruguayan Forwards Coach. He will collaborate closely with Leonardo Senatore, enhancing the team’s forward strategies and dynamics.
Leonardo Senatore: New Lineout Coach
Leonardo Senatore transitions from Peñarol in Super Rugby Americas (SRA) to the Uruguayan national team. The 40-year-old former Pumas No. 8 was the Head Coach of the Uruguayan SA entrant in the SRA. In his new position, Senatore will serve as Uruguay’s lineout coach, bringing his extensive experience and tactical expertise to the team’s lineout play.
Joaquín Pastore: Continuity in the Coaching Staff
Joaquín Pastore is the sole member retained from the previous coaching regime led by Esteban Meneses. Pastore, a product of Old Boys in Uruguay, continues his role as the backs coach under Ambrosio. His playing career includes representing Uruguay at the 2003 Rugby World Cup, where he was part of the team that defeated Georgia in Sydney, Australia.
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Upcoming Matches and Player Arrivals
Uruguay is set to play home matches in July against Tier 1 opponents, starting with a match against France in Montevideo on Wednesday, July 10. The Teros roster for these matches is yet to be announced. However, Uruguay’s foreign-based professional players are expected to begin arriving home on July 1.
This bolstering of the coaching staff with experienced and well-regarded professionals like Figallo, Senatore, and Pastore is expected to enhance Uruguay’s performance and competitiveness on the international rugby stage.