Warren Gatland receives honorary degree

NEWS RELEASE

24 January 2013

Wales and Lions rugby coach Warren Gatland receives honorary degree from Swansea University

Warren Gatland, the coach who has led the Wales rugby team to two Grand Slams in five years, and to the brink of a World Cup final, was today honoured for his contribution to Welsh sporting life when he was awarded an honorary degree by Swansea University.

Rhodri Morgan, Chancellor of Swansea University, former First Minister of Wales, and a lifelong rugby fan, conferred the degree on Warren Gatland in a graduation ceremony in the city.

Warren Gatland said:

It’s a massive honour to be awarded this degree and I’m absolutely thrilled. It’s my first time on the Swansea University campus and I’ve been very impressed with the facilities here, as well as the warm welcome.

Warren David Gatland was born in Hamilton, New Zealand, in 1963, and attended Hamilton Boys’ High School and Waikato University. He played hooker for Waikato, winning 140 caps (a club record) and was part of the All Blacks squad between 1988 and 1994.

After his playing career was over, Warren had coaching roles with Leinster, Connacht, Ireland, London Wasps and Waikato. He was appointed Welsh national coach in 2007 and his achievements with Wales include two Grand Slams, in 2008 and 2012, and a memorable World Cup campaign.

In summer 2013 he will have the honour of leading the British and Irish Lions on a tour of Australia.

Rhodri Morgan, Chancellor of Swansea University, said:

For a rugby fan like myself, presenting an honorary award to Warren Gatland, one of Wales’s most successful national coaches, is a true pleasure and privilege. His achievements as head coach of the national side have been exceptional. Swansea University has produced generations of fine players, and it is therefore very apt that we welcome him here to honour him with this award.

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