Crusaders assistant Brad Mooar appointed head coach of Fijian Drua for 2027

Monday, 27 July 2026

Crusaders assistant coach Brad Mooar is leaving the franchise to become head coach of the Fijian Drua for their 2027 Super Rugby Pacific campaign.

Mooar spent six seasons with the Crusaders, helping guide the team to four championship titles.

Highlights of his tenure include the Crusaders' 2017 title victory in South Africa and the 2025 championship win.

He will remain in Christchurch for the coming weeks as transition plans and handover responsibilities are completed.

Crusaders assistant coach Brad Mooar will leave the Christchurch-based Super Rugby Pacific franchise to take over as head coach of the Fijian Drua for their 2027 campaign.

Mooar has spent six seasons in total with the Crusaders, playing a role in four championship-winning campaigns. His tenure included the club’s first title win in South Africa in 2017 and its 2025 championship victory.

Mooar said while he and his family are excited about the opportunity, he is sad to leave after two fantastic years.

'I've loved being part of this club and working alongside such great people,' Mooar said. 'Thank you to everyone who has supported me during my time here. The relationships I've built here won't change, and I look forward to watching the Crusaders continue to thrive while staying connected to the club in the years ahead.'

Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge said Mooar’s departure would leave a significant gap within the coaching group, but described the head coaching position as an opportunity he had earned.

'Brad has been an outstanding contributor to our club and this opportunity sees him step into a head coaching role that is thoroughly deserved,' Mansbridge said. 'As both a coach and a person, there is no one better suited to such a challenge.”

Mansbridge added that the club had benefited from Mooar's 'sharp sense of humour and positive presence, but also from his analytical, thoughtful and astute rugby mind”.

Mooar will remain with the Crusaders in the coming weeks as transition plans are worked through ahead of his departure.