Wallabies assistant coach Michael Foley will join the HSBC Waratahs coaching staff next season after signing a three year deal with NSW Rugby.

Waratahs Head Coach Chris Hickey said Foley’s acquisition will provide continuity in coaching where real progress has been made.

“Michael’s been working hard with our forwards for some time now and we’ve seen the results in the Waratahs’ set piece play and scrummaging in particular,” said Hickey.

“During the Super 14 Michael has been a familiar face around the place so to know that we’ve got him full time now is a major coup for NSW Rugby.”

Foley will end a three-season stint with the national team – working on set piece technique and strategy – after the end-of-year Spring Tour. “I have enjoyed my time with the Wallabies immensely and there is still much to be done over the next few months,” Foley said.

“Looking further ahead, what this opportunity with the Waratahs provides is an appealing opportunity to be at home more frequently. “With four children, that’s very important to me and my family. The travel demands over the past three seasons have been extensive.”

Hickey said Foley’s tenure will begin in January 2009. “It’s important to respect Michael’s commitments with the Wallabies over the next few months,” added Hickey. “He’s got a Tri Nations and Spring Tour to complete and that will further enhance his value to the Waratahs program.”

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