Western Force continue spending spree as former Fiji coach joins franchise

The Western Force’s recruiting spree has spread to the coaching ranks, with former Fiji head coach John McKee joining the Perth-based franchise.

McKee was coach of Fiji from 2014-2019, leading the nation in two World Cups.

He was credited for helping lift the standard of rugby in Fiji.

Before his stint with Fiji, McKee spent time with French Top 14 outfit AS Montferrand, Irish PRO14 team Connacht, and Australian domestic side Central Coast Rays, which he led to their inaugural NRC title in 2007.

McKee, who replaces Van Humphries as an assistant to Force coach Tim Sampson, said he was looking forward to getting back involved with club rugby.

Healthspan Elite Performance of the Week | Bledisloe II | Aoteaora Rugby Pod

Healthspan Elite Performance of the Week | Bledisloe II | Aoteaora Rugby Pod

“It was fantastic to see the Force in Super Rugby AU this year. The style of rugby they played throughout the competition showed how much potential there is within the group,” McKee said.

“Tim Sampson’s done a fantastic job here developing the team over the past few years and has created a strong club culture with a balanced mix of national and international experience, as well as some great young talent coming through the ranks.”

The Force have embarked on a big recruiting campaign since finishing last and winless in Super Rugby AU.

Irish legend Rob Kearney, Argentinian pair Tomas Cubelli and Julian Montoya, and Wallabies duo Tevita Kuridrani and Tom Robertson have all joined the club.

Jono Lance, Greg Holmes, Kyle Godwin, Ian Prior, Kieran Longbottom, Brynard Stander, and Marcel Brache are key players to have re-signed from last season.