Phil Greening lands top Japan job

A few days after announcing his departure from USA Rugby, former England hooker Phil Greening has been named as Simon Amor's replacement as head coach of the Japan men's sevens team.

Amor, a team-mate of Greening's at England Sevens and Gloucester, decided to step away from the role he has held for just under two years after leading the team at the Olympic Games in Paris.

A young Japan team finished last of the 12 teams at the Olympics and were well off the pace in the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series in 2024.

“I would like to thank the JRFU for the opportunity and honour to support the Japan Sevens programme over the last three years," said Amor.

"My aim was to give my best, to help the players and staff improve. I’m very proud to have achieved my two main goals of supporting the Sakura Sevens to qualify for the World Sevens Series in 2022 and qualifying the Men’s team for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

"My hope is that the fast and brave style of play, and innovative set piece that was embraced by the crowds in Paris will inspire children across the wonderful country of Japan to play Sevens rugby and become future Olympians.”

Greening, 48, starts his new job on September 1st after a decade of service to rugby in the United States, having been an assistant to men's sevens head coach Mike Friday as well as fulfilling a number of other roles.

Commenting on his appointment, Greening said: ‘’I’m excited and honoured to be heading up the Japan Men’s Sevens programme. We will develop the programme in all areas, from athletic and skills development, to high-performance, and create a pathway for Japan’s exciting young players.

"My aim is to create and deepen the player pathways by building relationships with the clubs and universities to have a player centred approach to help nurture Japan’s young talent. Japan has a deep tradition and love of rugby, and we should be performing on the highest stage consistently, which is what I want to achieve and be part of.”