Tasmanian Rugby Union is pleased to announce the coaching appointments for its 2026 Senior Representative programs, with experienced rugby figures Phil Jeffrey, Rhys Watts and Justin Black set to lead Tasmania's premier representative teams this season.
Following a competitive appointment process, the three coaches will take charge of the Colts, Women's and Men's programs as preparations begin for an exciting representative campaign.
Justin Black appointed Senior Men's Head Coach
Justin Black has been appointed Head Coach of the Tasmanian Senior Men's team and will lead the side into the newly established Australian Rugby Shield Southern Hub, to be held in Geelong from 8 to 11 October.
Justin impressed the selection panel with his vision for the program, his commitment to player development and his plans to build a high-performing environment that will provide opportunities for Tasmania's best players to compete against strong interstate opposition.
The Southern Hub represents an exciting new chapter for representative rugby, bringing together leading teams from across southern Australia in a high-quality competition format.
Rhys Watts returns to lead the Women's program
Rhys Watts will again take charge of the Tasmanian Senior Women's team after guiding the program over recent seasons.
Rhys has played an important role in the continued growth of women's rugby in Tasmania and will continue building on the strong foundations that have been established. His focus remains on developing players while providing opportunities for Tasmania's leading female athletes to represent their state.
Further details regarding the Women's representative program and competition schedule will be announced in the coming weeks.
Phil Jeffrey to coach the Colts
Phil Jeffrey has been appointed Head Coach of the Tasmanian Colts program and will also lead his side to the ARS Southern Hub in Geelong.
The Colts program provides an important pathway for emerging players transitioning into senior representative rugby, and Phil's appointment reflects TRU's commitment to investing in the development of the state's next generation of talent.
Looking ahead
Tasmanian Rugby Union congratulates Justin, Rhys and Phil on their appointments and looks forward to working alongside each of them as preparations commence.
With the Men's and Colts teams preparing for the inaugural ARS Southern Hub in October and the Women's representative program continuing to evolve, 2026 promises to be another exciting year for representative rugby in Tasmania.
Expressions of interest for players in the Men's, Women's and Colts programs are now open, with further information regarding training schedules, selection timelines and the Women's competition to be released shortly.
