NSW Waratahs confirm immediate departure of head coach Dan McKellar

The NSW Waratahs have confirmed that Dan McKellar’s two-year tenure at the helm of the Sydney-based Super Rugby Pacific franchise has ended with immediate effect.

McKellar signed a deal at the end of 2024, taking charge of two campaigns, finishing a disappointing eighth in both seasons.

Having joined the Waratahs after stints at Leicester, and then the Wallabies as an assistant coach, McKellar led the Sydney-based franchise to eleven wins over the course of his two year tenure.

NSW Waratahs Chairman Tony Crawford said the 49-year-old always put the club first.

“On behalf of the board, players and staff at the Waratahs, I would like to thank Dan for his significant contribution to the club,” Crawford said.

“Dan has made a massive impact on the club since joining, both on and off the field. His work ethic and commitment to deliver his coaching program were second to none and he always put the Waratahs first.”

Despite having one year left on his current contract, the head coach believes the time is right to depart.

“I have decided to step away from my role as Head Coach of the NSW Waratahs for personal reasons,” McKellar added.

“I step away knowing I have given my all to help turn the Waratahs’ fortunes around over the last two seasons. As a coaching group, we have all worked incredibly hard to drive positive and necessary change.

“I’d like to thank Dan Palmer, Locky McCaffrey, Mike Catt and Tom Carter for their hard work and support. I’d also like to thank captain Matt Philip for his support.

“As this journey for the Waratahs continues, I wish all the players and staff the very best for the future.”

BJ Mather, the Waratahs’ Director of High Performance, noted McKellar’s contribution to the franchise over the past two years.

“Dan achieved some landmark results on the field and reignited support for the Waratahs in the NSW rugby community,” Mather said on the Waratahs release.

“We wish him well in the next stage of his coaching career. He and his family will always be part of the Waratahs and we wish them all the best for the future.”