The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has announced the addition of Tim Sampson to their coaching staff for the upcoming seasons of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific. Sampson brings a wealth of international experience as both a player and coach, and will be responsible for developing the team’s attack strategies.
Previously the Senior Assistant Coach at the Melbourne Rebels, Sampson played a key role in guiding the team to its first-ever quarterfinals in 2024. He expressed excitement about joining the Drua, a club he has respected since its debut in the National Rugby Championship in 2017. “I am thrilled to be given the opportunity to coach at a club such as the Drua. Working with Mark, Baden, Glen, and the rest of the support staff was a significant draw, alongside the chance to coach a group of exceptionally talented athletes,” Sampson stated.
Sampson’s coaching credentials include a successful tenure as Head Coach of the Western Force from 2018 to 2022 and being recognized as Queensland Premier Rugby Player of the Year in 2005. In addition to his roles with elite teams, he has contributed to player development by serving as an Assistant Coach for the Junior Wallabies and holding coaching positions with the Canberra Vikings and Eastern Districts Rugby Club. His brief term as Interim Backs/Skills Coach for the ACT Brumbies in 2016 further enhanced his reputation in the rugby coaching arena.