The Waratahs have announced that Dan McKellar will succeed Darren Coleman as head coach following a challenging season in Super Rugby Pacific.
McKellar’s appointment follows his recent departure from Premiership side Leicester Tigers, where he was replaced by fellow Australian Michael Cheika.
The Waratahs acted swiftly, appointing Dan McKellar soon after naming former Fiji boss Simon Raiwalui as High-Performance Director, with the aim of launching a “new frontier” for rugby in New South Wales.
McKellar brings substantial experience, having found success with the Brumbies and served as an assistant in the Wallabies setup. The Waratahs are confident in his ability to lead the team to success.
“We’re delighted to have a head coach of Dan McKellar’s calibre joining the Waratahs,” CEO Paul Doorn said in a statement. “Dan has an impressive coaching resume and achieved great success with the ACT Brumbies in Super Rugby during his five-year tenure.”
“Dan will work closely with High-Performance Director Simon Raiwalui, and their partnership marks an exciting new frontier for the Waratahs.
“I am confident that the appointments of Dan and Simon will put the Waratahs on the path to delivering sustained success from 2025 and beyond,” added Doorn.
Bringing glory back
“I’m extremely pleased to be joining the NSW Waratahs,” McKellar expressed, “and I’m eager to help bring back the glory days.”
“Rugby in NSW boasts a rich history spanning over 150 years, with the Waratahs holding a pinnacle status in state representation.
“While the club didn’t meet expectations in 2024, there are foundational elements in place for improvement.
“I’m driven and committed to achieving significantly better results next season, characterized by consistent performances that will honor our dedicated Waratahs supporters.”
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