Melbourne Rebels have announced the signing of Brad Harris as the new assistant coach ahead of the 2024 season.
Having started his coaching career with senior with the Tuggeranong Vikings in 2012, Harris took the Club to back-to-back Premierships in 2013 and 2014, before leading the Canberra Vikings to the NRC Grand Final in 2015.
The 49-year-old also worked with Barbarians and Georgia and was seen in different roles in Fiji in the last five years. n his first season with the Fijian Drua, Harris guided the team to a historic NRC Championship on home soil and in 2020 he was part of the Fiji 7s side that went on to win the gold medal in the Tokyo Olympics.
He will now join Rebels after being part of Super Rugby side Fijian Drua in the last two seasons as a defence coach.
“Throughout my discussions with the Rebels, I couldn’t have been more impressed by firstly the quality of people involved and secondly the aligned vision for the Melbourne Rebels,” said Harris, who has signed a deal until the 2025 season.
“This is a team that I have watched closely over the past few seasons. I’ve seen first hand from an opposition perspective, the growth and development of the team.
“I will be looking to build on that fantastic foundation already in place with the players and team. I am excited to connect with all stakeholders across the club and bring my passion and energy to help drive the club forward towards the forefront of Super Rugby Pacific.
“Melbourne is also a city that I have loved visiting over the past number of seasons and I can’t wait to immerse myself and my family into the culture, lifestyle and community on offer.”