ACT Brumbies scrum coach, John Ulugia, has today been announced to continue as Wallabies scrum coach, signing a new agreement through to the end of 2028. Ulugia first linked up with the Wallabies on last year’s Spring Tour after Mike Cron retired from the full-time team role to take on an advisory position within RA. In good news for ACT fans, Ulugia will continue in his role with the Brumbies.
A former hooker, Ulugia earned 50 Super Rugby caps across stints with the Brumbies and the NSW Waratahs, and over 150 Top 14 appearances with ASM Clermont Auvergne and Bayonne. After hanging up his boots, Ulugia made the transition to coaching. "It’s a privilege to extend my time with the Wallabies. We have a vastly experienced coaching staff here, and I'm eager to continue to work alongside them,” Ulugia said. “Collaborating with Mike (Cron) has been an invaluable learning experience, and I'll look to keep drawing on his expertise as we strengthen the foundations of this proud playing group." Meanwhile, current Queensland Reds assistant coach Jonny Fisher will also join the Wallabies coaching ranks under incoming head coach Les Kiss following the Nations Championship Tests in July. Fisher moved from London to Brisbane alongside Kiss ahead of the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific season, having also played over 100 professional matches in the United Kingdom, including appearances for the England Sevens and England Saxons. Rugby Australia Director of High Performance, Peter Horne said: “We are delighted to secure both John and Jonny for the Wallabies coaching team. “John has thrived during his time at the Brumbies and under the ongoing mentorship of Mike Cron. He made a positive impact on the Wallabies environment from the moment he joined the squad last year and we are excited to continue that association moving forward. “Jonny has worked closely with Les Kiss dating back to their days at London Irish and, more recently, at the Queensland Reds and we look forward to welcoming him to the Wallabies staff after the first leg of the Nations Championship. “Together with Les, Scott McLeod, Tom Donnelly and Eoin Toolan, they bring with them a deep understanding of our domestic talent, gained through their extensive Super Rugby Pacific experience, which is a major asset. “They are both dedicated professionals who bring expertise, stability and continuity to the squad for this Test window and building into next year's home Rugby World Cup."
