Gloucester Rugby head coach George Skivington is keenly shaping the team’s pre-season with a sharp focus on improving defence, a crucial area identified for enhancement after last season’s challenges.
This summer brings significant changes to the Kingsholm coaching lineup. Joel Tomkins joins from the Catalan Dragons, bringing his expertise as a new defence coach to replace Dom Waldouck. Meanwhile, Brett Deacon switches allegiance from Leicester Tigers to take on the role of forwards coach—a new position within Gloucester’s structure. Skivington acknowledges that integrating these new coaches and their philosophies will require patience and time.
Last season, Gloucester finished eighth in the Gallagher Premiership standings and struggled defensively, conceding 576 points and 81 tries over 18 rounds—an average of 32 points per game. This defensive weakness put considerable pressure on the team’s attack. By contrast, Exeter Chiefs, the Premiership runners-up and leaders in defence, conceded just 20.4 points per game.
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On Tomkins’ arrival, Skivington commented, “Joel is coming from a different code and brings fresh perspectives. He’s working very hard, and I’ve spent a lot of time with him. His philosophies differ from our previous patterns, so he will need time and opportunity to settle and embed himself within the club. He is extremely diligent and knowledgeable, with plenty of union experience already, staying closely involved in the game’s developments.”
Regarding the forwards, Skivington is optimistic about Deacon’s transition: “Brett’s move should be more straightforward. He has been a forwards coach in rugby union before, in strong setups. His football principles align closely with mine. Being fully immersed at Gloucester will allow him to further refine and enhance the pack’s performance.”
Deacon will also benefit from the arrival of key forward signings, including Welsh internationals Dewi Lake and Jac Morgan, who will join after completing their Nations Championship duties. Additionally, locks Joe Joyce and Jean Kleyn will arrive earlier from Connacht and Munster, respectively, to integrate with the squad ahead of the season.
As Gloucester prepares for the new campaign, Skivington’s emphasis on defence and strategic coaching appointments set the stage for a focused and determined pre-season at Kingsholm.