ATHLETICS:Two-time Olympian Gary Ryan has been appointed Athletics Ireland's director of coaching. He takes overall responsibility for the preparation of all regional and national squads.

The Tipperary native was previously the AAI's director of development, a role now being filled by Jacqui Freyne.

Ryan retired from competition last August. He is the Irish 100m champion and national record holder at 100m and 60m.

The 34-year-old, who was a member of the Irish team that took bronze in the 400m relay at the World Indoor Championships in Budapest in 2004, will take up the role with immediate effect.

Freyne, a former national long jump champion, will head up a team of six regional development officers whose primary role is to promote the sport nationwide and increase participation.