McGeechan takes Lions role
by Michelle Fortune, 15 May 2008
Ian McGeechan has been confirmed as the coach for the 2009 British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa.
The Wasps director of rugby was regarded as the leading contender for the role after leading the Lions' to victory over the Springboks in 1997.
Indeed, the 61-year-old Scot has been involved in six tours, twice as a player [1974, 1977], once as an assistant coach [2005] and thrice as a head coach [1987, 1993, 1997].
South Africa's World Cup-winning coach Jake White had expressed an interest in the role but McGeechan was the preferred candidate, according to Lions Chairman Andy Irvine.
"A Lions tour is very special - even in the modern game they're as popular as ever," said Irvine at McGeechan’s unveiling.
"Some years ago there was doubt they would even continue but I'm delighted to say they're as popular as ever.
"Many players have said playing for the Lions is the highlight of their career. And we expect 50,000 fans to travel South Africa.
"The 2005 tour was very disappointing as we lost the Test series 3-0 so it's vital we have the best leadership for to achieve success in South Africa.
"Once Gerald Davies was appointed tour manager all our attentions focused on who would be the best coach. From day one McGeechan was in our thoughts.
"We wanted someone with a special bond with the Lions. We looked elsewhere as well but time and again we kept going back to Ian.
"He's the most successful coach in Lions history."
It is expected that current Wales coach Warren Gatland and Shaun Edwards will be named as McGeechan's assistant for the tour next summer.
McGeechan said: "I'm delighted to be here. It's an honour and privilege to get the opportunity to coach the Lions again.
"The Lions have always been so important to me. The Lions are special and unique. You can't compare them to anything else you do as a player or coach.
"Because they're so unique the preparation has to be unique. Ten games in eight weeks is a unique challenge.
"I believe you need a very tight squad. All preparations for 2009 will be about one group working very closely together.
"The fact it's against the world champions Springboks also makes it a massive challenge.
"I'm looking forward to working with Gerald Davies, the team manager. This will be a partnership.
"My responsibility will be the rugby and that will be my sole focus.
"The tradition of the Lions is important to making sure the Lions have a fighting chance of succeeding in South Africa.
"I will continue coaching at Wasps as it's important I'm hands on there. The arrangement does allow me to be flexible and the club are happy with that."