John McGuinness has been appointed as Bowls England’s first High Performance Director on a four-year fixed term contract.
McGuinness will be solely responsible for the selection of a High Performance Squad from a pool of players recommended by elected Regional Selectors and appointed International Team Managers.
He will drive Bowls England’s vision to be consistently respected on the international scene, particularly at, but not limited to Test Matches, World Championships (including qualifying events) and the Commonwealth Games.
McGuinness has a vast amount of experience on the international scene, making his international debut in 2000, and has been captain of the England men’s senior team since 2015.
He then represented his country at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, achieving a silver medal in the Men’s Fours.
Following his appointment, McGuinness said: “I am absolutely delighted and honoured to have been chosen as Bowls England’s High Performance Director. Having previously undertaken the role for the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006, I am familiar with the responsibilities and expectations that this position demands.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank John Bell for the dedication and commitment that he has delivered in the role of England Team Manger and Performance Director over the past 20 years. I have been fortunate to have acted both as a player and in a supporting role within England’s Elite Squads under John’s direction and he will be greatly missed.
“England is recognised as one of the leading bowling nations in the world and our continuing success in major championships such as Commonwealth Games and World Championships is important for our sport at all levels across the nation.
“I look forward to the challenges ahead and promise to bring enthusiasm, dedication, pride, professionalism and commitment to this important role for our sport.
“We are fortunate to have a pool of very talented players in England and I look forward to working with them and our experienced team of International Team Managers, Selectors and Board of Directors on the exciting times ahead.”
Following John’s appointment as High Performance Director, Bowls England will now be seeking a successor for his previous position as Director of Coaching.