Sione Fukofuka has stepped down as Scotland Women head coach, revealing that the emotional toll of being separated from his family in Australia became too great to sustain.
The New Zealander, who previously served as United States head coach from 2023 to 2025, was appointed by Scottish Rugby late last year and oversaw the national side during the Women's Six Nations. In an emotional statement published on the Scottish Rugby website, Fukofuka described the decision as "the hardest professional decision of my life."
"It's everything to do with what my family are sacrificing and what I'm missing out on being at home and being a father and a husband," he said. "Our boys are quite young and are missing out on that support when I'm not there."
Fukofuka explained that a change in personal circumstances — his wife's parents are unwell — made the previously planned 12-month family relocation to Scotland no longer feasible. He stressed that the departure had nothing to do with Scottish Rugby or its women's programme.
Forwards coach Dave Butcher has been appointed interim head coach ahead of the WXV Global Series, with Scotland's next fixture against Canada in approximately six weeks. Fukofuka endorsed Butcher, calling him a "first-class individual."
Scottish Rugby performance director David Nucifora expressed understanding. "Whilst we are disappointed to see him depart, we fully respect and understand the reasons why he has made this decision," he said. "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."
The departure marks a turbulent period for the governing body, which recently sacked chief executive Williamson following an internal inquiry.
Sources
- https://www.bbc.com/sport/rugby-union/articles/cq89el4pz7do
