Former Vodafone Fijiana XV head coach Ioan Cunningham is embarking on the next chapter of his international coaching career by joining the Scotland Women’s rugby team as a senior assistant coach. This appointment highlights the growing influence of Fiji’s women’s rugby program on a global scale.
Cunningham, who successfully guided the Fijiana in their preparations for the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2025, was officially welcomed into Scotland’s expanded coaching team under newly appointed head coach Sione Fukofuka. His experience includes a significant tenure in Fiji, where he advanced the national women’s program, as well as previously leading Wales Women for four years.
At 42 years old, Cunningham brings extensive experience to his new role, having coached 30 Tests with Wales Women and contributed to the professional men’s game with the Scarlets. During his time with the Scarlets, he was part of their coaching team that clinched the Pro 12 title, and he has also served as head coach of the Wales Under-20 men’s team.
Cunningham’s recent accomplishments in Fiji further cement his reputation as a coach adept at fostering high-performance environments in both emerging and established rugby nations. David Nucifora, Scotland Rugby’s Performance Director, expressed confidence in Cunningham’s abilities, stating, “Ioan brings significant experience from high-performance women’s rugby alongside strong technical expertise and an understanding of what is required to deliver at international level.”
Based at the Oriam high-performance centre in Edinburgh, Cunningham will work closely with Fukofuka as part of Scotland’s new centralized women’s program. He articulated his enthusiasm for his new role, saying, “I am really honoured and excited to have the opportunity to work with Scottish Rugby, especially with the Scotland senior women’s team. I have a personal connection to Scotland through my grandfather, which makes this opportunity a proud moment for me and my family.”
Cunningham’s appointment serves as a testament to the caliber of coaching talent that has emerged from the Fijiana program, reinforcing Fiji’s expanding role in the international women’s rugby arena. Additionally, the Fiji Rugby Union recently posted the vacancy for the Fijiana XV’s and Fijian Drua Women head coach, with applications closing on October 18, reflecting the ongoing progress and development of women’s rugby in Fiji.
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