McGahan joins Reds backroom staff
Queensland Rugby Union have announced that former Rebels head coach Tony McGahan has joined the Reds as a senior assistant coach for the next two seasons.
He will commence work at Ballymore immediately, as the Reds look to improve on a disappointing Super Rugby season in 2017.
McGahan will bring a wealth of experience to the Reds following more than a decade of professional coaching in both the northern hemisphere and Super Rugby.
Born and raised in Queensland, McGahan’s coaching career began in his home state at the helm of rugby nurseries Nudgee College and Anglican Church Grammar School’s First XV programs, as well as Queensland Premier Rugby side Easts.
He made the move to Irish powerhouse Munster in 2005 as an assistant coach and was involved in two Heineken Cup wins in 2006 and 2008 before becoming Director of Rugby, during which time he oversaw two Celtic League titles in 2009 and the 2011 season, as well as a famous victory over the touring Wallabies in 2010.
He joined the Wallabies as a coaching co-ordinator in 2012, before taking on the role as Melbourne Rebels head coach ahead of the 2014 season.
He left the role in Melbourne at the end of the 2017 Super Rugby season, where he finished as the longest-serving and most successful coach in the club’s history.
McGahan said he was excited to start his new role with the Reds and looking forward to playing his part in improving their fortunes in 2018.
“Being a born and bred Queenslander, joining the Reds is something that has always appealed to my coaching ambitions," he told the Reds' official website.
"I’m excited with the prospect of working with this current squad, it has strong balance of senior players and developing players who are starting to make their mark in Super Rugby.
“We’ve been away from Brisbane for 13 years, coaching in different parts of the world so to come home and settle into life in Brisbane and coaching at Ballymore sits well with myself and the family.”
Reds head coach Nick Stiles believes McGahan would be a valuable addition to the coaching staff.
“Tony is a proven coach with results in various competitions around the world," he said.
"He’s someone who brings the right attitude and experience and will be a great fit for the Reds."
Queensland Rugby Union CEO Richard Barker said: “Tony is a smart, experienced coach who comes with a track record of improving the programs he has been a part of and who operates with the highest of standards.
“There are no quick fixes in professional sport, but we know Tony’s appointment will bring experience and strong coaching support to the Reds program.”