Nicolas Godignon Joins NOLA GOLD Rugby as Assistant Coach and Director of Player Pathway

NOLA GOLD Rugby is excited to welcome Nicolas Godignon as the new Assistant Coach, specializing in Scrum and breakdown, and as the Director of Player Pathway. This appointment highlights NOLA GOLD’s dedication to rugby excellence and development.

Nicolas Godignon, a seasoned rugby manager, has an extensive background in the sport. Over the past 12 years, he has held key positions in several of France’s professional rugby clubs, from Pro D2 to Top 14 teams. His diverse experience includes roles as a Forward Coach, Head Coach, and Director of Rugby, most recently with Rouen.

His notable tenure in the Top 14 includes leadership roles at Section Paloise and Brive. At Brive, he advanced from U19 Head Coach to the Head Coach of the professional team, serving in this capacity from 2013 to 2018.

At NOLA GOLD Rugby, Godignon’s primary role will be focused around the team’s scrums and breakdown strategies. He will play a vital role in overseeing the development of players from grassroots to professional levels, fostering a strong future for rugby in the region.

He will also contribute to the local community by collaborating with over 34 French immersion schools in Louisiana, engaging with more than 5,200 students. This initiative aims to promote rugby among youth and foster cultural exchanges through the sport.

Godignon will also be instrumental in building international connections, especially between Top 14 Club Clermont Ferrand and NOLA GOLD. His proficiency in English and French is key to strengthening this partnership.

“We are excited to have Nicolas Godignon be a part of our team,” said Ryan Fitzgerald, General Manager at NOLA Gold Rugby. “Nicolas brings a tremendous amount of experience to our staff. He has a very good eye for the game and talent evaluation. Above all, he is committed to contributing significantly to the team’s success.

Nicolas Godignon expressed his excitement, saying, “I am delighted to join NOLA GOLD Rugby. I look forward to applying my European experience to this dynamic team and contributing to rugby’s growth in Louisiana and the USA.”