O’Halloran joins Suntory Sungoliath

Outgoing Glasgow Warriors attack coach Jason O’Halloran has announced that he will be joining Suntory Sungoliath in the Japan Top League for the next two seasons.

The former All Black returns to Japan having previously spent five years playing and coaching in the Top League.

O’Halloran has been a part of the Glasgow Warriors coaching staff since 2017.

He linked up with Scotland ahead of the 2016 Six Nations, working under Vern Cotter for 18 months before joining the Warriors.

During his spell at Scotstoun the Warriors have reached a Heineken Champions Cup quarter-final and a Guinness PRO14 Final.

It was confirmed in December that O’Halloran would leave the club at the end of the 2019/20 season and that Gloucester Assistant Coach Jonny Bell would be his successor.

Speaking to glasgowwarriors.org, Jason O’Halloran said: “I am excited to work alongside head coach Milton Haig, management and the exciting playing squad at one of Japan’s premier teams. Suntory have a reputation for playing a fast paced, attacking brand of rugby and this fits nicely with my own personal philosophy toward the game.”

“Japan did a fantastic job of hosting the 2019 Rugby World Cup and the Top League continues to grow in quality and significance globally. I am motivated to continue to learn and grow as a coach and couldn’t have hoped for a better opportunity to do this than with Suntory.

“I look forward to immersing myself in the great Japanese culture again. The fans are always hugely supportive of their teams, whilst respectful of the traditions of sportsmanship celebrated in rugby.”

On his time with Glasgow Warriors O’Halloran said: “Thank you to all the fans, sponsors, staff and players at Glasgow Warriors for their support and friendship over the past three seasons. Scotstoun is a very special place and I am proud to have worked with so many excellent players, who care so much for the club.

“I would like to wish incoming attack coach Jonny Bell the very best of luck in his new role. I have been fortunate to talk with Jonny recently and he is a thoroughly decent bloke, with good rugby smarts and a dry wit. I have no doubt he will fit in seamlessly at Scotstoun and do an excellent job.”

Glasgow Warriors Managing Director Nathan Bombrys said: “We appreciate everything Jason has done for the club over the past three seasons. He has treated us all to outstanding attacking rugby, that has been a joy to watch.

“Jason is a great coach and Suntory Sungoliath will no doubt benefit from his expertise. He will always be a part of the Warrior Nation, so on behalf of the players, staff, and supporters, Jason we wish you all the very best for the future.”