Easson to leave Scottish Rugby and Scotland Women head coach role after Rugby World Cup

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - MARCH 31: Scotland head coach Bryan Easson during a Scotland Women's team run at the DAM Health Stadium, on March 31, 2023, in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Photo by Ross Parker / SNS Group)

As Scottish Rugby prepares to transition professional women’s rugby back to Scotland after the tournament, Easson decided this was the right time to take on a new challenge, having spent 25 years working across a number of high-performance roles with the organisation.

Speaking on his decision, Easson said: “It has been the greatest honour of my coaching career to lead the Scotland Women’s national team through one of the most significant and inspiring periods in its history.

“During my time as Head Coach, this team has grown immensely, rising from 11th in the world to an all-time high of fifth, and now proudly ranked seventh. We’ve experienced unforgettable highs: qualifying for two Rugby World Cups, winning WXV2, and competing with the best in the world. These moments are etched in our collective memory.

“We’ve also faced real challenges, tough results, setbacks, and times when belief was tested. None of it, the resilience, the progress, or the success would have been possible without an exceptional group of players and colleagues who showed remarkable strength, unity and character throughout the journey.

“I want to especially acknowledge Tyrone Holmes (Defence Coach), Ellen Dickson (Team Manager) and Rachel Malcolm, the three constants who’ve been by my side throughout. Their leadership, dedication and belief have been instrumental.

“In 2022, we reached a historic milestone with the introduction of professional contracts for the women’s team, a landmark step that speaks to how far the game has come. I’m incredibly proud to have played a part in that progress and in building a foundation for the future.

“While the achievements belong to the group, I take pride in having led this chapter. I’ve always believed in leaving the jersey in a better place and I hope that’s what I’ve done.

“To every player, coach, and colleague I’ve had the privilege to work alongside thank you.”

Scottish Rugby CEO Alex Williamson said: “Bryan will take the Scotland squad to the World Cup in August as a fitting swansong to his many achievements as the coach of the national team and on behalf of everyone at Scottish Rugby we wish him success in England and also thank him for everything he has contributed to our sport over 25 years.”

Bryan was appointed to the Scotland Women Head Coach role full-time in December 2020 after leading the team as Interim Head Coach since August that year.

The process of recruiting a new Head Coach will commence shortly.