Edinburgh name South African as new senior coach

Jared Wright
Siya Kolisi, Captain of the Sharks and sharks coach Sean Everitt during the United Rugby Championship 2021/22 match between the Sharks and Edinburgh held at Kings Park in Durban on 26 March 2022

Siya Kolisi, Captain of the Sharks and coach Sean Everitt during the United Rugby Championship 2021/22 match between the Sharks and Edinburgh held at Kings Park in Durban on 26 March 2022

Edinburgh have confirmed their coaching structures for the 2023/24 season, with South African Sean Everitt named as the new senior coach.

Everitt takes over from Mike Blair, who stepped down from his role at the end of last season and has now joined the Kobe Steelers.

Everitt has signed an initial one-year deal, subject to visa approval, and joins the Scottish outfit from the Bulls, where he held a consulting position.

Sean Everitt’s experience

The attack and backline specialist brings a wealth of experience after 15 years at the Durban-based Sharks between 2007 and 2022.

“I’m honoured and delighted to be afforded a coaching opportunity at Edinburgh Rugby,” Everitt told the club’s official website.

“Edinburgh has a proud history, and I’m privileged to be part of their successful journey toward becoming a top club in Europe.

“I’d like to thank Mark Dodson [Scottish Rugby CEO], Jim Mallinder [Scottish Rugby Performance Director], and Douglas Struth [Edinburgh Rugby Managing Director] for the confidence they have in my ability as a coach.

“My family and I are excited and are looking forward to our future in Edinburgh.”

Everitt was the Sharks’ head coach for three seasons after progressing through the age-grade levels, leading them in Super Rugby, URC, Champions Cup and Currie Cup competitions.

He will link up with the Edinburgh squad this month and join the coaching group that includes Stevie Lawrie (forwards coach) and Michael Todd (defence coach).

Meanwhile, Rob Chrystie has been promoted from Academy coach to assistant attack and skills coach.

 

Steve Diamond stays on for now

Edinburgh also confirmed that Steve Diamond will continue as lead rugby consultant during the pre-season programme to allow a period of support and transition before Everitt takes the reins.

Edinburgh managing director, Douglas Struth, added: “We’re delighted to appoint Sean as the club’s senior coach.

“Sean brings significant experience and pedigree to the role, having spent 15 years developing and rising to the top of the Sharks coaching system.

“He has a reputation for being a forward-thinking, winning, and attack-minded coach who is passionate about developing talent and getting the best out of his players – which is exactly what we’re looking for, as we continue to build a coaching structure for a successful future here at Edinburgh Rugby.

“Sean has worked with and developed some of the biggest stars in South African rugby, which says a lot about his capability as a man-manager and leader, while his knowledge and understanding of the game from being a Head Coach in both Super Rugby and the BKT URC will bring a huge amount of value and insight to our coaching group.”

Meanwhile, Les Kiss, who was believed to be one of Edinburgh’s candidates to fill the vacancy, has been unveiled as the Queensland Reds’ new head coach.

READ MORE: Reds turn to experienced Queenslander to take over their coaching reins