Since the end of the 2016 season, the Blues Super Rugby franchise has been canvassing for new staff. In an effort to turn successive years of disappointment around, current head coach Tana Umaga this week confirmed his final appointment that makes the Blues Super Rugby Coaching Group Complete.
Two recent appointments have been confirmed by head coach Tana Umaga and franchise CEO Michael Redman. They are highly respected coach Dave Ellis, who returns to New Zealand after coaching at the Connacht club, in Ireland. The other is current North Harbour head coach Steve Jackson.
Two new staff add to Blues 2017 coaching group
Dave Ellis (main picture) is an established International coach. Playing within New Zealand, Australia and England, he has worked with many European clubs. Ellis will bring a wealth of experience to Auckland. A part of a winning Guinness Pro12 coaching group beside Pat Lam [former Blues head coach] Ellis will join the Auckland side as attack coach before pre-season begins in October/November.
Returning to NZ rugby, Ellis with pair with current Harbour head coach Steve Jackson (below) working with Umaga. Jackson has brought a successful term so far with Harbour, and he will hope to develop further within the Blues. Appointed the forwards coach, Jackson is aiming to gain the best from the experienced Blues All Blacks and young talent.
After seeking the position previously in 2014, his appointment reflects a good local appointment. Jackson, from Waitakere and the Massey club, will ensure local knowledge will balance the International awareness that Ellis and Umaga will bring. ‘Jacko’ will likely have the ear of the players, and will bring a high level of energy and fresh thinking.
Fresh thinking at Blues franchise
After one season at the helm, Umaga did not have the immediate touch that Sir John Kirwan had in 2012. The lack of semi final appearances has grated loyal Blues fans, so a fresh approach is needed. That will be underpinned by a firm skills base–Ellis will bring that.
Alastair Rogers (defence) and Kylie Wilson (mental skills) complete the group, to work along with the conditioning staff who begin testing the team once that roster is confirmed. A full squad announcement will be due by late October, and then the planning can begin.
Changes to the group were necessary; in the coaching group as well as players. In 2017, some may possibly not be retained but expect Jerome Kaino and Ihaia West to form the basis of the side. Augustine Pulu and Pauliasi Manu are two signings announced so far, showing the strong bonds Umaga formed with Counties-Manukau as coach there.
Auckland, Harbour and Northland foundations
As well as looking outside the region, Umaga and his group will research the quality of players within the franchise-catchment zone. Auckland, North Harbour [Harbour] and Northland form the foundations of the franchise. Expect many familiar names to appear, and for the side to visit regional centres during pre-season.
All this reinforces the philosophy of Tana Umaga and the Blues board. They are respectful of their strong Super Rugby history and the sense is that it is only ‘a matter of time’ before those good times return. With a fresh approach, and with new voices within the coaching group, this season may see the Blues team return to the top of Super Rugby in 2017.
“Main photo credit”
