Gloucester's Coaching Overhaul: A Potential Boost for the Club
Gloucester is reportedly set to make a significant move in their coaching staff reshuffle, with the potential to bring in former All Blacks assistant coach Jason Holland. This move comes as the club aims to strengthen its position ahead of the upcoming season.
Holland, a 52-year-old former Ireland A international, has an impressive coaching resume. He played in two Heineken Cup finals for Munster at the start of the Millennium, facing defeat by Northampton Saints and Leicester Tigers. His coaching career began with the province and continued with the Hurricanes, where he served as head coach for four years between 2020 and 2024.
Under Holland's leadership, the Hurricanes achieved notable success, including their sole Super Rugby title in 2016 and a Heineken Cup. He also claimed two Celtic League titles with Munster and the 2013 NPC crown with Canterbury. Holland's expertise and track record make him a sought-after addition to Gloucester's coaching team.
The club's coaching shake-up extends beyond Holland's potential arrival. Former agent Rob Burgess, who previously held roles as Gloucester's rugby manager and head of rugby operations, is set to return to Kingsholm as the general manager. Additionally, England World Cup winner Trevor Woodman is in talks with Connacht about their scrum coach position, which is expected to become vacant soon.
Gloucester's coaching changes also include discussions with Rob Hunter, the former Exeter Chiefs head coach, about becoming their forwards coach next season. This move comes despite a club-record 79-17 loss at Gloucester last year, which led to Hunter's dismissal from the Chiefs after just four games in charge at Sandy Park. The club's strategic adjustments aim to enhance their performance and competitiveness in the upcoming season.
