The Australian Rugby Union has confirmed Qantas Australian Men’s Sevens Strength and Conditioning Coach Lachlan Penfold will depart his role to take up a position with NBA outfit the Golden State Warriors.
Penfold will assume the role of Head of Physical Performance and Sports Medicine and will add to the Australian contingent at the Californian franchise that already includes superstar centre Andrew Bogut.
With over 20 years of experience in the field of athletic performance, Penfold has held positions in a wide variety of sports that includes working with 80 Olympic athletes in five different Olympic Games. Most recently he worked at Head of Performance at the Sydney Roosters (2011-13) and the Brisbane Lions (2005-10). In the newly-created role with the Warriors, he will oversee the Warriors athletic training and strength and conditioning programs, working closely with the team’s coaching staff to promote optimal player performance.
Penfold said: "It was a tough decision to leave as I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here. The players' are a fantastic group to work with, and I've really loved working with them and feel a special connection with them. I truly believe they will make the Olympics, and I'll be watching them closely on that journey."
Qantas Australian Director of Rugby Sevens Geraint John added: "I would like to place on record my thanks to Lachlan for his support since he joined the program seven months ago. He leaves us with our blessing and, on behalf of the Sevens program, I wish him all the best in his new endeavours in the States."
