The Western Force continues to build towards its vision to become a world class rugby club with the appointment of Leon MacDonald as the Club’s coaching consultant across all three programs.
MacDonald, who will begin in his new role at the Force later this week, joins after working as the All Blacks assistant coach following five seasons in charge of the Blues including leading the side to the 2021 Super Rugby Trans-Tasman title and 2022 Super Rugby Pacific grand final.
The 47-year-old is a former All Blacks back (2000-2008) who earned 56 caps, including playing at the 2003 World Cup. He is also a winner, lifting the Super Rugby title six times with the Crusaders.
MacDonald will work with Force CEO Niamh O’Connor to build the club to be a world class coaching hub and will also assist the current coaches across all programs.
O’Connor said: “Leon’s appointment is part of our three-stage plan and vision to make the Western Force the best club in the world as a player, as a coach, as a high performance staff member and as an administrator.
“The next phase in that re-build is to put solid foundations in place for the future that sets up long-term sustainability for our club.
“Coaching framework and pathways are a major cornerstone of long-term sustainability, so this is an appointment with that in mind.
“Leon brings a wealth of experience, having played and coaches at the highest level. His availability was too good an opportunity not to utilize.”
MacDonald said he was thrilled to take on the Force project and the opportunity to work with the Club’s coaches to make the Club leaders in Australian rugby.
“I’m excited about taking on this position,” MacDonald said. “It’s a different role to that I’m accustomed to but I’m excited by that challenge and looking forward to supporting the coaches.
“What stood out about this project is the Western Force are very aspirational as a rugby club, currently boasting nine Wallabies and eight Wallaroos.
“The Club is determined to become a real force in the Super Rugby competition and their energy and enthusiasm really caught me. Of course, they are also based in a beautiful part of the world, so I’m looking forward to the move.
“There’s plenty of optimism and excitement building around Australia rugby again. I was excited to be a part of this resurgence.”
MacDonald, who arrived in Perth on Tuesday evening, has signed on for the 2025 Super Rugby season.
Leon MacDonald
International playing career: All Blacks (56 caps, 2000-2008, 2003 World Cup)
Super Rugby playing career: Crusaders (1997-2009), Chiefs (1998)
Coaching career:
All Blacks assistant coach (2024)
Blues head coach (2019-2023)
Crusaders assistant coach (2017)
Tasman head coach (2016-2018)
Tasman assistant coach (2010-2015)
