David Ellis joins Flying Fijians as interim defense coach

David Ellis has joined Fiji’s national team camp with a clear immediate assignment: strengthen the Flying Fijians’ defensive systems before the Pacific Nations Cup in September.

The British coach brings more than 25 years of experience in international and professional rugby. His career includes work in more than 1,000 professional club matches and over 200 Test matches, as well as extensive involvement in player development and defensive organization.

Ellis spent 11 years with France as assistant coach for defense, from 2000 to 2011. During that period, France won several Six Nations titles, including Grand Slams, reached the Rugby World Cup semi-finals in 2003 and 2007, and reached the 2011 final, where New Zealand won 8-7.

His international work has also included consultancy with the All Blacks during their 3-0 series victory over the British and Irish Lions in 2005, along with defensive coaching roles with Tonga and Romania. More recently, he worked with Romania during its 2023 Rugby World Cup qualifying campaign, helping the team win a bronze medal in the Rugby Europe Championship.

At club level, Ellis has coached Gloucester, Castres Olympique, CA Brive, London Irish and Lyon. He is now working alongside Fiji’s coaching staff and players as the team intensifies preparations for its September tournament.