Misi Taulapapa returns to Dons as assistant coach

We are delighted to confirm that Misi Taulapapa has returned to the club to join Richard Horne’s coaching team.

Taulapapa has taken up the role of assistant coach and cultural lead as we continue to strengthen the staff to aid the fulfilling of club ambitions and management of an expanded squad.

The former Samoa international spent four seasons as a player with the Dons, including playing a significant role in promotion back to the Championship in 2023.

After hanging up his boots following a season in League 1 with Goole Vikings, Taulapapa is ready to begin his coaching career in earnest.

“I’m really excited to be back at the club and be part of everything that is coming,” he said. “It was always my goal to coach and the opportunity came with Rich, who felt we needed more hands on as we grow as a team.

“I was really excited with the opportunity because it’s something I’ve always wanted to do and to do it with Doncaster is a blessing as well. It’s an overwhelming experience.”

As well as his work on the training ground and sidelines, the 43-year-old has also been tasked with driving culture and standards within the squad.

Dons head coach Richard Horne said: “Misi has been in our environment and he understands the way we want to defend and the way we want to play.

“We want to be a hard working team and that is everything that Misi is all about. I think this will be a nice, easy step for him as he moves into coaching and it’ll be a big boost for us.”