Hunter, who resides in Peterborough, Ontario, moves into the position – which was previously held by Dustin Hopkins, who is currently filling the role of Interim General Manager of Rugby Operations and Performance – which focuses on the development of coaches, match officials, HSBC Rookie Rugby presented by Honda and all grassroots initiatives.



“I am incredibly excited to step into the new role on an interim basis; We have an incredible rugby community which is hugely passionate about both growing and developing the community and domestic game of rugby in Canada,” said Hunter from Ontario.



Having acted as the Manager of National Coach Development since 2015, Hunter has travelled to all 10 provinces over the last three years working with all levels of the game of rugby in Canada, from club to internationals.



“It is important for me within this role to provide a platform for our rugby community to be heard, and for our rugby community to play a valuable part in driving our game in both growth and development,” he added.



“In what is an exciting but very busy time for Rugby Canada, it is crucially important that we maintain a significant focus on the development of our game across the country,” said Hopkins from Langford, BC. “Paul’s valuable experience of working in the area of growth and development over the years makes him the ideal candidate to fill this role on an interim basis.



“I’d like to thank Paul for taking on this responsibility and wish him all the best.”



Paul can be reached at phunter@rugby.ca



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