It was announced this week that Scotland’s assistant coaches, Steve Tandy (defence), John Dalziel (forwards), and Pieter de Villiers (scrum), have recently renewed their contracts, meaning the three coaches will be working with Scotland beyond the Rugby World Cup, until at least April 2026, alongside Townsend who has also recently renewed his contract.
After a disastrous World Cup performance across the board in 2019 enforced a reshuffle, long-term incumbent Matt Taylor was given the heave-ho, and Steve Tandy was brought in as a replacement. With an instant positive impact, Tandy was part of the British and Irish Lions coaching team in 2021 alongside Townsend and Warren Gatland.
John Dalziel, who previously served as Assistant Coach for Glasgow Warriors and Head Coach for Scotland’s Under-20s team, has been serving as the Forwards Coach for Scotland for the past three years. He is now joined by Pieter de Villiers, who will continue as the team’s Scrum Coach.
During the Guinness Six Nations, former All Black assistant coach and Scarlets head coach Brad Mooar joined the Scotland coaching staff alongside Glasgow Warriors assistant coach Pete Horne. Both coaches assisted in attack and will continue their roles during the build-up to the Rugby World Cup and into the tournament itself.
Mental Skills Coach Aaron Walsh (who counts Super Rugby’s Chiefs and Baseball’s Texas Rangers among his other clients) will also continue working with the team on the psychological side of their game during the Rugby World Cup period.
“The news that Steve, John and Pieter have extended their contracts is a real boost. They are all key members of the coaching group and provide invaluable support to our players and myself.
“Since coming on board all three have made a hugely positive impact to not only their individual areas but also to our all-round game and the environment. I’d like to thank Scottish Rugby for their support in keeping this coaching group together for the next few years.“We enjoy working with each other and are determined to do all we can to bring out the best in this special squad of players.
Gregor Townsend
