women
international women
Matt Ferguson has left his role at PREM Rugby Club Harlequins to take up a role at the RFU as scrum and contact skills coach.
The former Northampton Saints coach will work with John Mitchell’s Red Roses in the women’s system as well. In a previous stint with the RFU, Ferguson was forwards coach for the Red Roses for three years and helped the team qualify for the 2017 Women’s Championship. Rugby World Cup the final.
Ferguson is credited with turning Sarah Byrne from the back row into a face.
He then spent seven seasons at Northampton Saints between 2018 and 2025, during which time a number of the East Midlanders’ tight forward five earned Test honours, before joining Harlequins as head rugby coach.
Ferguson will join the Red Roses on their three-match tour of North America. They will play WXV Global Series 2026 matches against Canada and USA Women’s Eagles.
Charlie Hayter, Head of Women’s Performance, said: “Ferg brings a wealth of experience to Red Roses and the Women’s Road.
“He has worked at the elite end of the game for over a decade and has experience of improving the skills of some of England’s best international forwards in the men’s and women’s game.
“His expertise and attention to detail will have a huge impact on our current Red Roses, while developing those on our path who aspire to be senior internationals in the future.”
It has also been confirmed that Andy Holloway has rejoined the team as skills and kicking coach. Holloway spent three years with the team, including building up to Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2025
A coach at various levels, Holloway spent seven years with Champ Rugby side Ealing Trailfinders and with England men’s and women’s sevens.
Hayter added: “Hollers has played an important role in the Red Roses’ success over the past three years, including winning the Rugby World Cup in 2025. He has also been instrumental in the progression and development of our players.
“His knowledge and understanding of players makes him a valued member of our performance team and we are really pleased to have him continue with us.”