Rugby Australia Moves Forward with Endorsement from Top Mentor

Rugby

Cron to Continue Shaping Australia’s Next Generation of Scrum Coaches

After wrapping up his stint as Wallabies assistant coach last weekend, Mike Cron will remain involved in Australian Rugby — taking on a mentoring role to help develop the next wave of forwards coaches, with a particular focus on the scrum.

An internationally respected scrum specialist, Cron joined the Wallabies setup in 2024, initially signing on through the end of this year’s British & Irish Lions Series. He later extended his stay through to the conclusion of the 2025 Rugby Championship, where he made a notable impact on both the coaching staff and the playing group.

Although stepping away from the Wallabies’ day-to-day operations, Cron will continue to contribute across the broader Australian rugby system. His new role will see him mentor emerging coaches and work closely with young forwards — especially those in the tight five — to build depth and technical strength for the future.

Replacing him in the Wallabies’ setup for the upcoming End of Year Tour is current Brumbies assistant coach John Ulugia. The tour will see Australia take on Japan, England, Italy, Ireland, and France.

A former professional hooker, Ulugia brings plenty of experience to the role. He notched up 50 Super Rugby appearances for the NSW Waratahs and ACT Brumbies, along with more than 150 matches in France’s Top 14 competition with ASM Clermont Auvergne and Bayonne, before moving into coaching.

Rugby Australia’s Director of High Performance, Peter Horne, praised both Cron’s contribution and Ulugia’s appointment:

“Firstly, on behalf of Rugby Australia I’d like to thank Mike for what’s been a major contribution to the Wallabies since his appointment in 2024,” Horne said.

“He’s a great person and highly respected across the game. We’ve been fortunate to have his expertise for the past two years, and we’re delighted he’ll continue to support Australian Rugby going forward.

“Meanwhile, John is a highly motivated young coach, and this End of Year Tour is a fantastic opportunity for him to continue developing and gain valuable experience at the highest level. We’re also very grateful to the Brumbies for releasing him to join the Wallabies for the duration of the tour.”

Cron’s continued involvement ensures his world-class knowledge remains within the Australian system, helping to nurture the next generation of coaches and players who will carry the Wallabies’ forward pack into the future.