Sione Fukofuka leaves Scotland role

Scottish Rugby has confirmed that women’s head coach Sione Fukofuka has stepped down from his role due to personal reasons after eight months in charge.

Fukofuka joined Scotland in December ahead of the Women’s Six Nations campaign and led the national side through this year’s tournament.

Scotland finished fifth in the championship, with their only victory coming against Wales. His departure now leaves the team needing short-term stability before the upcoming WXV Global Series.

Fukofuka said stepping away was the hardest professional decision of his life. He explained that the strain of being away from his family in Australia had become too much to continue in the role properly.

"I've had to make probably the hardest professional decision of my life to step away from the role as head coach," Fukofuka said.

"I approached Scottish Rugby and asked for a release from my contract under compassionate grounds.

"Effectively, the stress and the strain on my family, who are back in Australia away from me, proved too much to continue and to do this role the way it should be.

"With the time back home in Australia over the summer, it was able to give me a lot more insight into the sacrifices that they're making, on top of those that I make as well.

"We also had a change in circumstances where, unfortunately, my wife's parents are unwell, so that means the family relocating in the 12-month plan that we had is not feasible any more.

"I can't be away from my family for that amount of time and do the job the way it should be done."

Dave Butcher Named Interim Head Coach

Forwards coach Dave Butcher will take interim charge of Scotland Women ahead of the WXV Global Series, which begins on September 13.

Scottish Rugby performance director David Nucifora thanked Fukofuka for his contribution and said the organisation fully respected his decision.

"I would like to thank Sione for his contribution to Scottish Rugby and whilst we are disappointed to see him depart, we fully respect and understand the reasons why he has made this decision.

"During his time in the role, Sione showed great passion and commitment to the national team and the wider women's programme at Scottish Rugby".