In a significant shake-up within rugby coaching circles, experienced PREM Rugby coach Matt Ferguson has decided to join the Red Roses, while Joe Gray steps into a pivotal role at Harlequins.
Matt Ferguson, known for his tactical acumen, has taken up a new challenge as the scrum and contact skills coach for the Red Roses, aligning with John Mitchell’s coaching staff. Ferguson is certainly no stranger to the RFU, having previously contributed to both the women’s teams and the Men's ‘A’ team. His extensive experience in the PREM, including recent stints with Northampton Saints and Harlequins, is expected to be invaluable as he embarks on this long-term commitment with the Red Roses.
“Ferg brings a huge amount of experience to the Red Roses and the women’s pathway. His track record for enhancing the skill sets of England’s top international forwards in both the men’s and women’s games is commendable," said Charlie Hayter, RFU head of women’s performance.
Simultaneously, Joe Gray returns to Harlequins, taking on the role of lead rugby transition coach. Having previously made 170 appearances for the club, Gray’s familiarity with Harlequins and his recent coaching roles, including director of rugby at London Scottish, prepare him well for his new responsibilities in nurturing young talent and smoothing their transition to top-level rugby.
Ferguson remarked on his tenure and the future, noting the difficult decision to leave Harlequins but also the exciting opportunity with the Red Roses. He looks forward to participating in the upcoming WXV tournament and values the additional time he can spend with his family.
“Leaving Harlequins wasn’t easy. The chance to coach the Red Roses and get stuck into the upcoming WXV tournament was too good to turn down – Test opportunities don’t come round often, and it also means more time with my family,” Ferguson explained.
Gray expressed enthusiasm about his return to Harlequins, emphasizing his passion for developing young players and contributing to the club’s future success.
“I’m really looking forward to joining Harlequins as Lead Transition Coach. Harlequins is a club that means a huge amount to me, so to have the opportunity to come back in this role and play a part in the growth of the next group of players is something I’m really looking forward to,” said Gray.
Jason Gilmore, head coach at Harlequins, expressed his delight at welcoming Gray back and also emphasized his gratitude towards Ferguson for his contributions, particularly in helping numerous Academy players progress to the first team.
Additionally, Harlequins have secured the future of their scrum coach, Adam Jones, who has extended his contract with the club. Jones, a former player and a respected figure within the coaching community, has been integral in developing Harlequins' set-piece and contact area prowess alongside Rob Hunter.
“I’m really pleased to be extending my time at Harlequins. This Club has been a huge part of my life since I first came here as a player in 2015, and it’s been a natural home for my coaching career since," Jones reflected.
This series of coaching shifts and renewals illustrates both the dynamic nature of rugby coaching and the profound impact experienced coaches like Ferguson, Gray, and Jones have on their teams and players, shaping the sport at both the club and international levels.
