Dani Raya Steps Down as VPC Andorra Rugby Coach After Four Seasons
The announcement followed a narrow loss in the promotion phase, capping a tenure with two Catalan Honor Division titles and deep club ties. No successor named amid financial challenges.
Key Points
- Dani Raya steps down as VPC Andorra rugby coach after 4 seasons.
- Announcement followed 14-16 loss to Gipuzkoa in promotion phase.
- Tenure included 2 Catalan Honor Division titles and deep club ties.
- Club faces financial challenges; no successor named yet.
Dani Raya has stepped down as head coach of VPC Andorra's senior men's rugby team after four seasons, confirming the move on Instagram following the final match of the season.
The announcement came after VPC lost 14-16 to Gipuzkoa Sortzen Taldea in the promotion phase at Estadi Nacional on Sunday, ending any chance of reaching the play-off. Raya informed the players of his decision immediately after the game. In a social media post, he wrote: "Last Sunday was my last match as VPC Andorra coach. After four seasons, it's time to close a cycle. They've been intense years with much learning and great friendships. Thanks to everyone who was part of this journey. Go VPC."
Players including Juampi Minuzzi, Galdric Calvet and Pep Arasanz sent messages of support, while the club replied: "You taught us not just rugby. You taught us effort, commitment and values. Thanks for everything. We wish you the best in this new stage."
During Raya's tenure, VPC secured two Divisió d'Honor Catalana titles, finished second in the regular league this season and ended fifth in the promotion phase. His links to the club run deep: he previously coached the women's team for five years—sometimes alongside youth squads—and played for VPC.
Raya, currently abroad, has not ruled out coaching overseas. New VPC president Èric Caporali must now find a replacement amid financial challenges that will prompt a squad overhaul, including player returns from abroad. No successor has been appointed.
Original Sources
This article was aggregated from the following Catalan-language sources: