Dragons appoint Filo Tiatia as new defence coach

Dragons have announced the appointment of former New Zealand international Filo Tiatia as the new defence coach.

The 52-year-old will head to the Welsh province ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Tiatia already had played for Ospreys 99 times between 2006 and 2011 and had also represented Wellington, Hurricanes and Toyota Verblitz in the past.

He started his coaching career with Ospreys as an assistant coach. He also had worked as head coach at Toyota Verblitz and Sunwolves in Japan and spent time as forwards coach and assistant coach with the Japan national side.

He also has worked in Super Rugby as Forwards Coach for Moana Pasifika and has also had a spell as Forwards Coach with Auckland Rugby and most recently was the Director of Rugby at Rangitoto College in Auckland.

“I’m excited by the challenge ahead and opportunity to return to Wales with Dragons RFC," he told the club's official website.

“I’ve spent some time discussing the club’s aspirations with Dai.

"It’s a good time for an ambitious club to kick on and I’m looking forward to being a part of a new coaching set-up.

“There is undoubtedly a quality squad, full of young Gwent talent, being assembled at Dragons and I can’t wait to get started with the players this summer and help us move forward.”

Dragons are positioned 15th in the United Rugby Championship table with three wins from 15 matches.