The Scottish Rugby Union has confirmed that Sione Fukofuka, the head coach of the women's national team, has departed from his role after just eight months in charge, citing personal reasons. Fukofuka took the reins in December, prior to the Women's Six Nations tournament, and guided his team to a fifth-place finish, with their sole victory coming against Wales. Following his departure, Dave Butcher, the forwards coach, will assume interim charge of Scotland ahead of the WXV Global series, which commences on September 13.
Fukofuka stated, 'I've made the toughest professional decision of my life to step down as head coach.' He approached Scottish Rugby and requested a release from his contract on compassionate grounds, citing the strain on his family, who are based in Australia, as the primary reason. Fukofuka explained that spending time with his family over the summer provided him with a deeper understanding of the sacrifices they were making, in addition to his own.
Furthermore, a change in circumstances, including his wife's parents falling ill, meant that the family's planned relocation within the next 12 months was no longer feasible. Fukofuka emphasized that he could not continue to be away from his family for an extended period while performing his duties as head coach.
David Nucifora, Scottish Rugby's performance director, expressed his gratitude to Fukofuka for his contributions and acknowledged the reasons behind his decision. Nucifora noted that Fukofuka demonstrated great passion and commitment to the national team and the women's program during his tenure.
The priority for Scottish Rugby remains supporting the women's national team and the women's program players and staff, with efforts underway to establish suitable structures ahead of the WXV Global Series and engage in long-term recruitment discussions.