Dan Palmer, born on 13 September 1988, is an Australian rugby union coach and retired professional player. He is currently serving as the lineout coach for the Australia national team and will join Leicester Tigers as a scrum coach after the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Palmer played for the New South Wales Waratahs and ACT Brumbies in Super Rugby, and also had a short stint with French club Grenoble. His primary position on the field was tighthead prop.
Palmer's rugby journey started in Shellharbour, New South Wales, where he played junior rugby with Kiama and attended Warilla High School. He represented Australia at various levels, including Schoolboy, Under-19, and Under-20. In senior club rugby, he played for Southern Districts in the Shute Shield competition in Sydney.
In 2007, Palmer played for the Melbourne Rebels in the Australian Rugby Championship. He then joined the New South Wales Waratahs squad in 2008 and signed a three-year deal after making his debut in the Super 14 competition. Seeking more playing time, he moved to the ACT Brumbies in 2011, where he became their starting tighthead prop.
Palmer earned his first cap for Australia as a starting tighthead prop against Scotland in Newcastle on 5 June 2012. Following that, he signed with FC Grenoble for the 2013-14 season but was unable to play due to a persistent foot injury. In 2014, Palmer officially retired from rugby union. However, he made a temporary return to the playing roster for the Brumbies during the 2015 Super Rugby season, joining them for their tour to South Africa.
After retiring, Palmer transitioned into coaching and became involved with the Brumbies coaching staff. He has also coached Australia 'A' and worked with Suntory Sungoliath. Palmer will be coaching Australia's lineout at the 2023 Rugby World Cup and will then take up the role of scrum coach at Leicester Tigers.
Outside of rugby, Palmer pursued his studies and completed a double degree in science and psychology at the Australian National University. As of 2021, he is working towards a PhD in the cellular mechanisms of brain function. Palmer made headlines as the first openly gay Wallabies player and has been recognized for his leadership and dedication to the sport.
KG(07/07/2023)
Career
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NSW Waratahs Loosehead Prop |
2008 - 2010 |
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ACT Brumbies Loosehead Prop |
2011 - 2014 |
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Australia Coach |
2023 - 2024 |
