After shockingly leaving Leicester, Dan McKellar obtains a new job and teams up with an ex-Fijian coach.
The Waratahs have announced that, following a challenging season in Super Rugby Pacific this year, Dan McKellar will succeed Darren Coleman as head coach of the team. Only a few weeks have passed since McKellar was fired as the head coach of the Premier League’s Leicester Tigers and replaced by another Australian, Michael Cheika.
Increase by two With the intention of establishing a “new frontier” for rugby in New South Wales, the Waratahs swiftly attacked McKellar shortly after recruiting former Fijian manager Simon Raiwalui as High-Performance Director. McKellar has experience, having worked as an assistant in the Wallabies set-up and enjoyed success with the Brumbies in the past. The Waratahs think he can guide the group to victory. CEO Paul Doorn said in a statement, “We’re delighted to have a head coach of Dan McKellar’s calibre joining the Waratahs.”
“Dan has an outstanding coaching background and led the ACT Brumbies to five Super Rugby titles in his five years there. “High-Performance Director Simon Raiwalui and Dan will collaborate closely, and this alliance opens up an exciting new chapter in the Waratahs’ history.
“I have no doubt that the addition of Dan and Simon will set the Waratahs up for long-term success starting in 2025 and beyond.”
Restoring glory McKellar is thrilled about the job and is eager to return the Waratahs to their former glory. McKellar said, “I’m really happy to be joining the NSW Waratahs.” “New South Wales has a rich 150-year rugby heritage, and the Waratahs represent the best representation in the state. “The club did not live up to expectations in 2024, but there are foundations in place for future success.
“I’m driven and excited to provide a significantly better performance for the devoted Waratahs fan base next season, which will consist of constant efforts.”