Graham Dewes, the forwards coach for the Flying Fijians, is set to join the Waikato Chiefs as their scrum coach for the 2025 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season. The Chiefs management views Dewes as a significant asset, especially following Fiji’s impressive quarterfinal run in the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Dewes will be joined by Jono Gibbes, the head coach of the New Zealand Under 20s, who will serve as an assistant coach for the Chiefs. Both coaches are expected to bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the team. Dewes has a rich background in rugby, having played for the Chiefs’ provincial teams, Counties Manukau and Thames Valley, as well as representing Fiji in 28 games. He was part of the successful 2007 Fijian squad that reached the Rugby World Cup Quarter Finals.
Chiefs Chief Executive Simon Graafhuis expressed enthusiasm about bringing coaches like Dewes and Gibbes into the fold, highlighting Dewes’ transition from domestic to international coaching as a valuable development for the team. Dewes himself expressed excitement about this new chapter, emphasizing the opportunity to work with talented players and staff while building upon the foundation already established at the club.
Gibbes, who returned to the Chiefs prior to the 2024 season, has already made significant contributions and is highly regarded by players and staff. Graafhuis noted the positive impact of Gibbes on the team’s development and the anticipation of further growth with his ongoing involvement.
This appointment of experienced coaches creates a positive outlook for the Chiefs, enhancing their strategic depth as they aim for success in upcoming seasons.
Summary: Graham Dewes, the forwards coach of the Flying Fijians, is set to join the Waikato Chiefs as the scrum coach for the 2025 season, alongside Jono Gibbes, the New Zealand Under 20s head coach. Both coaches are expected to make significant contributions to the team’s development, with Dewes bringing international coaching experience and Gibbes continuing his impactful role within the club. The Chiefs aim for growth and success with this promising addition to their coaching staff.
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