The Western Force have confirmed Simon Cron will take over as head coach at the end of the 2022 Super Rugby Pacific season.
Cron replaces Tim Sampson whose contract expires at the end of this season, signing a two year deal with the club.
"Simon is one of world rugby's most talented young coaches whose philosophy is to make better rugby players, both on and off the field,” Force owner Andrew Forrest said in a statement.
"It is his dedication to values, player wellbeing and growth, as well as his respected coaching ability, that we are really looking forward to at the Force.
“Simon's leadership and technical knowledge of the game will be welcomed by the player and coaching team at the Force, as it builds to be a true powerhouse in world rugby.
"A huge thanks to Tim Sampson for his great and tireless role in bringing the Force back into Super Rugby. He has been a true champion of the club. Nicola and I wish him all the best in the next chapter of his rugby coaching career."
Cron is currently coaching Japanese club Toyota Verblitz in Japan's Rugby League One Competition, currently sitting fifth after ten rounds.
He made the move in 2019 having been overlooked for the Waratahs job after serving as an assistant and winning a Shute Shield competition with Norths.
“Andrew Forrest took time out of his extremely busy schedule to talk with me around his family's love of the Western Force and how it is a key part of the Western Australian sporting community,” Cron said.
“We had an opportunity to talk about what is important to each of us and it was clear he lives by the values he has installed into his businesses.
“I see the Western Force as a club which has fought through adversity and come out the other side because of a genuine love of rugby within the organisation and its amazing supporters, the Sea of Blue.
“I look forward to working with the players, coaches and staff to develop a team that will inspire the next generation of Western Australian boys and girls to want to play rugby, as well as help those currently playing to grow within our game. I also look forward to helping shape a team the Sea of Blue and all of Western Australia can be mighty proud of.”
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The move sees the shock departure of Tim Sampson, who has led the side since 2018.
Sampson has been an integral figure in their resurgence and rise following their Super Rugby exit, guiding them to their first finals appearance in 2021.
“The Western Force’s success and resurgence back into Super Rugby is testimony to the leadership and support from Andrew and Nicola Forrest, along with fellow staff and players who have contributed in many ways since my arrival at the commencement of the 2018 season,” Sampson added.
“My focus hasn’t changed. We are determined to achieve success and perform well for the remainder of the season.
