Graham Dewes, who has been serving as the forwards coach for the Flying Fijians, is set to join the Waikato Chiefs as the scrum coach for the 2025 Shop and Save Super Rugby Pacific season. Dewes is expected to be a valuable asset to the Chiefs, especially following Fiji’s impressive quarterfinal run in the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Alongside Dewes, Jono Gibbes, currently the head coach for the New Zealand Under 20s, will also take on a role as assistant coach for the Chiefs. Dewes has a robust background, having played for the Chiefs Country provinces Counties Manukau and Thames Valley, as well as representing Fiji in 28 matches, contributing to their notable 2007 Rugby World Cup Quarter Finals appearance.
Chiefs Chief Executive Simon Graafhuis expressed enthusiasm about Dewes and Gibbes joining the team, noting that Dewes’ rapid rise from NPC to international coaching reflects his talent and potential contribution to the franchise. Dewes himself expressed his excitement about the opportunity to work with world-class players and staff, emphasizing his eagerness to build on the existing strong framework at the Chiefs.
Gibbes, who returned to the Chiefs for the 2024 season in a Resource Coach role, brings an extensive coaching background to the franchise. Graafhuis acknowledged Gibbes’ significant contributions thus far and expressed confidence in the positive impact of his extended involvement in 2025.
This coaching shift not only signifies a step forward for Dewes and Gibbes but also reinforces the Chiefs’ commitment to enhancing their coaching staff and nurturing talent within the team. The combination of their experience and skills offers a promising outlook for the Waikato Chiefs as they aim for success in the upcoming season.
In summary, the addition of Graham Dewes and Jono Gibbes to the Chiefs’ coaching staff highlights a strategic move aimed at building a competitive edge in the Super Rugby Pacific 2025 season, blending experience with fresh perspectives to foster team development and performance.
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