31 apply for Flying Fijians head coach job - The Fiji Times

A TOTAL of 31 applications have been received for the Fiji Water Flying Fijians head coach position, with the Fiji Rugby Union now beginning the shortlisting process.

The FRU said applications had come from coaches across the international rugby community, including experienced coaches from Tier One nations.

Some applicants have international coaching experience in the Six Nations, Premiership Rugby, France’s Top 14 and other professional competitions.

The FRU said the shortlisting process has commenced and will be followed by interviews, consultations with key stakeholders and final approval by the FRU Board.

The successful candidate is expected to be announced ahead of the Nations Championship in November.

The head coach position was advertised on August 22, with applications closing on September 21. The position carries a contract through to December 2027 and includes responsibility for leading the Flying Fijians through the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

The successful coach will also be responsible for developing Fiji’s high-performance programme, player pathways and local coaching staff.

The recruitment follows the FRU’s decision to part ways with Mick Byrne in April, with Senirusi Seruvakula subsequently taking over as interim head coach.