Legion Head Coach Stephen Hoiles to depart for Super Rugby
California Legion Head Coach Stephen Hoiles will depart the club effective immediately to take up a coaching opportunity in Super Rugby Pacific with the NSW Waratahs.
The former Wallaby departs following an accomplished coaching tenure in Major League Rugby, which included winning an MLR Championship as an assistant coach with the LA Giltinis before leading California Legion to the MLR Final in 2026, the club’s inaugural season under its new statewide identity.
The process to appoint California Legion’s new Head Coach for 2027 is already well advanced, with a formal announcement expected in the coming days.
“I want to thank the entire California Legion organization for the incredible opportunity to lead this program,” Hoiles said.
"To the players, staff, fans and everyone who supports the game here — thank you. You’ve been incredibly welcoming to me and my family, and we’ll always be grateful for our time in California.
“Having coached four of the past six seasons here in Los Angeles, I leave incredibly optimistic about the future of professional rugby in California and across the United States.
“There is so much potential for the game here, and with the Men’s Rugby World Cup coming to the USA in 2031 and the Women’s Rugby World Cup following in 2033, it’s an incredibly exciting time for MLR And USA Rugby.
“I’m proud to have played a small part in that journey and look forward to watching the game continue to grow. I wish the Legion fans and the wider California rugby community the very best next season and beyond.”
California Legion CEO Adam Freier said the club would move decisively, with a clear focus on immediate success and the long-term growth of the organization.
“We are very proud to have been part of Steve’s coaching journey and of what he accomplished here in California - He departs with the club’s full support,” Freier said.
"We want our players, coaches and staff to progress to the highest levels of the game. When they receive opportunities to do so, it reflects positively on our organization, our program and the support provided by our ownership group.
On Hoiles' replacement, the Club said it would move quickly, with plans are well underway.
“Our mantra is to be brave, be bold and be number one — and that is exactly how we are approaching our 2027 Head Coach appointment.
“There has been speculation around coaching movements for some time, and behind the scenes we have been working diligently to attract world-class coaching talent capable of leading professional rugby in California in 2027 and beyond.
“On behalf of the entire club, I would like to thank Steve for his contribution to Major League Rugby and wish him and his family every success in the next chapter of his coaching career.”
Highly respected Legion Assistant Coach Dave Clancy will continue to play a key role throughout the transition and ongoing player recruitment process.
Clancy has coached across the collegiate and professional game with UCLA, the Chicago Hounds and California Legion. He is widely regarded as one of the most experienced evaluators of emerging rugby talent in California and across the United States.
