14 November 2026
Glenwood High School has officially announced the appointment of Belgium Tuatagaloa as the new Head Coach of its 1st XV rugby team, effective for the 2027 season.
Tuatagaloa’s promotion marks an exciting new chapter for Glenwood Rugby. He brings vast international playing experience, a deep understanding of high-performance environments, and a strong passion for developing young talent.
Having served as the 1st XV Defence Coach during the 2026 season, Tuatagaloa is already well-acquainted with the school’s structures, its players, and the high standards expected of the "Green Machine." Stepping into the top role ensures valuable continuity while allowing him to shape the team’s broader playing philosophy and programme.
Born in Auckland, New Zealand, Tuatagaloa enjoyed an extensive professional career across New Zealand, Samoa, England, and France.
He first rose to prominence on the sevens circuit, earning selection for the New Zealand Sevens team in 2012 and 2013—a dominant period that saw New Zealand claim back-to-back IRB Sevens World Series titles. He later switched allegiance to represent Samoa in international sevens from 2015, before earning Test caps for Manu Samoa in the 15-man code from 2019.
At provincial and club level, Tuatagaloa represented Canterbury in New Zealand and was named in the Crusaders squad in 2013. His career then took him to Europe, where he turned out for French side Valence Romans, English Premiership club London Irish, and Rouen Normandie Rugby in France's Pro D2 competition.
A versatile outside back comfortable on the wing, at centre, or at fullback, Tuatagaloa was renowned for his pace, sharp handling, and defensive grit. During the 2018/19 season, he finished as the leading try-scorer in France’s Fédérale 1 competition with 18 tries.
Tuatagaloa's global playing career exposed him to diverse rugby cultures and elite coaching systems. This background gives him sharp insight into the demands of the modern game, particularly regarding discipline, defensive organisation, tactical awareness, and teamwork.
His ongoing work in youth mentorship has already fostered a strong connection with South African schoolboy rugby. As Head Coach, he will draw on these experiences to guide Glenwood’s young players both on and off the field.
Glenwood High School is confident that Tuatagaloa’s leadership will drive the continued growth of its rugby programme. The 1st XV remains a cornerstone of the school's sporting heritage, and the focus moving forward is to build a competitive side that embodies the pride, values, and traditions of Glenwood Rugby.
The school also extended its sincere gratitude to outgoing 1st XV Head Coach Justin Hollis for his dedication and service to the programme. Hollis will be taking up a new role at Stanford Lake College in Haenertsburg, Limpopo, and leaves with the school's best wishes for the next chapter of his career.
Glenwood High School warmly congratulates Belgium Tuatagaloa on his appointment and looks forward to seeing the Green Machine take the field under his guidance in 2027.