Photo: SPA Images

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Former Wallaby, Brumbies and Waratahs lock Justin Harrison has been named as the new General Manager of the Classic Wallabies. Harrison replaces the outgoing Stephen Hoiles, who is now working with the Australian Men’s Sevens team as a Coaching Consultant.

A veteran of 34 tests, Harrison brings plenty of rugby nous and experience to the role following his time in Australia, and overseas with Ulster and Bath as a player, and latterly as Director of Rugby at Narbonne in France.

After a successful post-retirement transition into business, he has recently returned to Australia with his family, and is looking forward to contributing to the Classic Wallaby program.

“I’m thrilled to be working with the Australian Rugby community as well as past Australian representative players to build our program and continue the outstanding work done by Stephen Hoiles,” he said.

“The Classic Wallabies are a powerful community who are dedicated to helping everyone from the grassroots through to the professional level, as we all have the same golden thread running through us.”

Classic Wallabies President Simon Poidevin feels that the appointment of Harrison will enable the program to continue the growth achieved through the fine work of Stephen Hoiles over the last few years.

“‘Hoilesy’ has done a fantastic job cementing the Classic Wallabies brand within the Australian Rugby landscape through matches, events and coaching clinics, particularly in regional areas,” he said.

“Justin’s appointment will allow the Classic Wallabies to build on the foundations laid in 2018 and evolve into a self-sustaining entity to grow, develop and support the sport of Rugby in Australia.”