For Season 2025 Melbourne Rugby Club has a new Head Coach, and his vision is clear – a relentless drive to compete for the Dewar Shield – the pinnacle of Victorian rugby.
The Club has appointed Conrad Foord as its new Head Coach for season 2025, a move that promises to bring ambition, structure and a winning mentality to the side.
Foord, a rugby coach with experience in both Assistant and Head Coach roles, has a proven track record of developing teams and guiding them towards success. Foord believes that a relentless work ethic is the foundation to success. “I’m committed to working tirelessly to give the players the best chance at success”, he says, underscoring his dedication to helping the Club reach its full potential while instilling the same ‘work rate’ mentality within the squad.
A winning mentality, focused on the Dewar Shield
The primary goal for the Club under Foord’s leadership is to compete at the highest level – that means making a serious run at the Dewar Shield – Victoria’s premier rugby competition. Foord is determined to shape a team that plays with purpose, and most importantly, with the desire to win the championship.
“Our aim is to do everything in our power to win the Dewar Shield,” Foord declares. We want to build a squad that’s not only competitive, but one that believes it can win when it matters most.”
Foord’s approach to coaching is methodical and goal oriented. “I take pride in my ability to communicate effectively, build team morale and create opportunities for players to develop,” he explains. For Foord, every training session is an opportunity to get better, and this work ethic will be key as the team sets its sights on the Dewar Shield.
Leadership built for pressure
One of Foord’s core strengths is his ability to maintain composure under pressure – something that will be invaluable as the Unicorns seek to challenge the top teams in the competition. “I’m goal-oriented and results-driven,” says Foord. “But I also know that staying level-headed during crucial moments can make all the difference. It’s about getting the best out of the team when the stakes are highest.”
Foord’s leadership style centres on fostering unity, positivity and meticulous strategic preparation. He emphasises that “Success comes from teamwork and clear communication, with every coach, player and management staff working towards a shared goal.” This underscores the importance of cohesion and mental resilience, especially in high-pressure moments.
With the Dewar Shield race set to be highly competitive, Foord’s ability to keep the team focused on their ultimate goal will be invaluable as Melbourne strives for the title.
Structured for success
Off the field, Foord is known for his meticulous organisational skills, ensuring that the administrative side of the Club is just as tight as the rugby squad. From game planning to player development, Foord has a clear strategy for improvement, rooted in detailed analysis and structured coaching.
“I’m committed to building on what I’ve already achieved, and I want to help this team reach its full potential,” he says.
With a well-rounded coaching approach, Foord will not only look to maximise each player’s individual growth but will also create a cohesive, disciplined team that thrives under pressure.
A new era of possibility
Under Foord’s leadership, Melbourne is ready to step up and take on the challenge of the Dewar Shield. Supporters can expect a team that plays with intensity, ambition and a clear focus on becoming the best in Victoria.
Foord’s ambition matches the Clubs “I’m confident that we can achieve success together,” he says. And with his combination of tactical insight, leadership, and a results-driven mentality, the dream of Dewar Shield glory is on the way to becoming a reality.
Round 1 of the Dewar Shield kicks-off on Saturday 12 April, 2025.
Conrad Foord, Head Coach (CV)
Coach Education
2024 IRANZ High Performance Coaching Certificate
2023 IRANZ Advance Coaching Certificate
2019 World Rugby Level 2 Coaching (Blue Bulls Rugby Union)
2017 World Rugby Strength and Conditioning Level 1 (Blue Bulls Rugby Union)
2015 World Rugby Level 1 Coaching (Blue Bulls Rugby Union)
Coaching Experience (recent)
Melbourne Rugby Club (2023 – Current)
1st Grade Defence & Backs Coach (2024)
2nd Grade Head Coach (2023)
1st Grade Assistant Coach (2023)
Victoria Schools’ Rugby Union (2023 – Current)
U18 Boys Attack & Backline Coach
Trinity Grammar School (2024 – Current)
Technical Director of Rugby
