Jones to be Ospreys coach after Booth leaves at end of season
Mark Jones (L) became Ospreys defence coach under Toby Booth in August 2023
- Published
Former Wales wing Mark Jones will take over as Ospreys head coach at the end of this forthcoming season when Toby Booth will step down.
Booth has been in charge since the summer of 2020 at the Swansea-based team.
Wales and British and Irish Lions back row Justin Tipuric's playing career will also end as the 2024-25 season concludes.
Tipuric has also stood down as captain for the 2024-25 campaign with Wales 2023 World Cup captain Jac Morgan taking over. Tipuric will succeed Jones as Ospreys defence coach for 2025-26.
Ospreys paid tribute to Booth, stating: "Coming in at arguably one of the Ospreys’ lowest points, he has transformed the Ospreys not just on the field but off it too."
Booth is a former London Irish director of rugby who was assistant coach at Harlequins before arriving in west Wales. He was also Bath's first-team coach for seven years.
“I came here four years ago with a very definite project, and I’m leaving because it’s the right time and there’s a natural succession in place," said Booth.
"Sometimes it’s about timing, and I think the time is right for the group. I also think the time is right for me to move onto something a little different."
Jones has coached at Scarlets, New Zealand side Crusaders, Wales and Wales Under-20s.
Jones said: “The privilege of coaching the Ospreys is not lost on me. Toby has been excellent at allowing me to develop in the role I’m currently in and giving me great autonomy."
Tipuric said: “I’ve coached throughout my career, so it was something I was really excited to do after playing. The most exciting part for me is going into the coaching group and learning all the time."
Ospreys chief executive Lance Bradley said: “These coaching changes form part of the Ospreys’ long-term strategic plan to ensure continued success, both on and off the pitch.
"By promoting from within and ensuring that key figures like Mark and Justin take on vital roles, the club is confident that the team will thrive under their leadership in the seasons to come."