Waratahs snap up Fiji coach in new role

06/28/2024 03:04 AM

NEWS: The Waratahs have confirmed that they had signed former Fiji head coach Simon Raiwalui to their newly created position of Director of Performance.

The Waratahs endured a dismal season - ending at the bottom of the Super Rugby table which saw head coach Darren Coleman forfeit his duties as the man in charge.

Raiwalui - who led Fiji to the 2023 World Cup quarterfinals and ended a 69-year drought against Australia at the global showpiece - will be a key figure in finding a successor whilst helping to revitalise the team.

"Simon has an excellent reputation internationally across the rugby world and we're thrilled to have secured his services until at least the end of 2027," said Waratahs chief executive Paul Doorn.

"He possesses elite experience across the three pillars of coaching, player development, and high-performance sport and will be a valuable addition to our club."

The Auckland-born lock enjoyed his playing days with Newport, Saracens and Racing 92.

He is also capped 43 times by Fiji.

His coaching career kicked off at Racing 92 as he took charge of the forwards before taking up roles with Stade Francais and Biarritz.

He made his Test coaching debut in 2018 under former Wallaby head coach Micheal Cheika.

Raiwalui took up the role as Fiji head coach in 2023 where he guided them to the World Cup quarterfinals.

He looks forward to his next challenge and have confidence that the Waratahs will be better in 2025.

"Waratahs fans are among the most passionate in the Super Rugby Pacific and whilst the season didn't go to plan in 2024, I'm confident that you'll see a vastly improved result next season," he said.

"I'm excited to get to work."