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Former Wallabies forwards Stephen Hoiles and Wycliffe Palu have signed two-year deals with the NSW Waratahs, joining the coaching staff led by new boss Michael Cheika ahead of 2027. Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
Cheika was training Waratahs to the first men’s Super Rugby title in 2014, with the Sydney side claiming a one-point victory over the Crusaders. Hoiles and Palu started in the backfield for New South Wales parties that evening in Harbor City.
Hoiles made more than 100 appearances in Super Rugby in all games with the team Brumbies and Tahs, and featured in 16 Wallabies Tests. This 44-year-old has since started a successful coaching career, which included stays in Australia and abroad.
The Wallaby coached LA Giltinis in Major League Rugby, was part of the Australia Sevens program and took charge of Shute Shield Randwick for two seasons. Randwick ended a 20-year wait for a Shute Shield title under Hoiles in 2023.
Hoiles recently returned to the United States with the California Legion, who played in the MLR Championship game against the Chicago Hounds. USA Eagles captain Jason Damm and former NFL draftee Cassh Maluia were among the players who played for the Legion.
Palu is widely regarded as a Wallaby great, having featured in three Rugby World Cups and playing 58 Tests for Australia. The former fullback has made 139 appearances at Super Rugby level, the fifth most of any Waratah in the competition.
“I grew up playing all my junior rugby in NSW. The Waratahs have always been a team you aspire to play for and it’s the same as a coach,” Hoiles said.
“It’s a nice moment and it’s a bit of a full-circle moment to come back and get this opportunity. It’s a really important part of the Australian rugby ecosystem, making sure the Waratahs play on and off the field.”
“It feels good to be back. I’m looking forward to planning and starting the 2027 season, which will be really important for the state of NSW.”
Palu added: “I’m really excited to be coming back to the Waratahs,” Palu said.
“It’s a club that means a lot to me and has played a big part not just in my rugby journey, but in my life. So the opportunity to come back as a coach is pretty special.
“I’m looking forward to bonding with the players, working alongside the staff and returning to the club I love.”
