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Former International Referee Glen Jackson Appointed As Fijian Drua Coach

Former International Referee Glen Jackson Appointed As Fijian Drua Coach

Former Chiefs fly-half and international referee Glen Jackson was named head coach of the Fijian Drua men ahead of the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season.

May 20, 2024 by Philip Bendon
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The board of Fijian Drua has appointed Glen Jackson as the new head coach for the men’s team. 

Jackson, who is serving as the assistant coach, brings a wealth of experience from his diverse career in rugby.

A former international referee with over 100 first-class fixtures under his belt, Jackson also boasts significant playing experience as a Super Rugby Pacific fly-half for the Chiefs, where he made 60 appearances. 

His recent role as assistant coach for the Flying Fijians during the 2023 Rugby World Cup showcased his coaching prowess.

Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans expressed confidence in Jackson’s abilities.

“Glen has already made a tremendous contribution to the Drua since our inception in 2022," Evans said. "The board is delighted to appoint Glen to the role after a thorough process. Glen has wonderful ideas, which will allow the Fijian Drua to have even greater success moving into the future. His deep knowledge of the Fijian culture, complemented by his insights and relationship with the players, staff and everyone in the Club, assures the continuity the Drua needs.”

Jackson officially will assume his new role once Mick Byrne transitions to his full-time position as head coach of the Flying Fijians after the current Super Rugby Pacific campaign. 

Jackson expressed gratitude for the appointment.

“I am grateful, humbled by the opportunity, and the responsibility is not lost on me," he said. "I have learned a lot, and I am very passionate about the Fijian culture. My time at the Flying Fijians and Drua has shown me how powerful the Fijian culture, community and passion are in molding good players and good people.”

He emphasized his excitement for the future.

“I’m very excited about the future of working with quality players and for the chance to develop leaders. The Drua can change people’s lives, and rugby is our national sport. I am committed to ensuring Fiji continues to make a stand in Super Rugby Pacific, grows the game and sets a platform for the next generation.”

Jackson has been appointed on a three-year contract, bringing his extensive experience as a player and referee to the role. 

His playing career includes 60 Super Rugby Pacific appearances for the Chiefs, where he scored 474 points, and 130 appearances for Saracens in Premiership Rugby, amassing 1505 points. 

As a referee, he officiated 32 tests, 88 Super Rugby Pacific matches and 60 domestic New Zealand matches, including eight Ranfurly Shield fixtures.

Jackson’s appointment marks a significant step forward for Fijian Drua, with high hopes for the future of the team under his leadership.

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