Matt Saunders takes over Southland Stags helm for 2024 season
In anticipation of an exciting rugby season ahead, Rugby Southland is pleased to announce the confirmed coaching lineup for the SBS Bank Southland Stags. With a blend of experience and fresh perspectives, the coaching staff is geared up to lead the team to success in the upcoming season.
Matt Saunders, in his capacity as Rugby Southland's Director of Rugby, will take the helm overseeing the program. After a year of observation in 2023, Saunders is ready to take a more hands-on approach, bringing his wealth of knowledge and strategic insight to guide the team.
"I'm thrilled to be taking a more active role in the SBS Bank Southland Stags coaching setup," said Matt Saunders. "As we focus on developing our players, it's equally important to develop our next generation of coaches. We have a talented group of coaches who are dedicated to nurturing our players and fostering a culture of excellence."
Continuing in his third season, James Wilson will play a pivotal role in the preparation leading up to the teams assembly in July. His expertise and dedication are expected to be instrumental in shaping the team's performance on the field, especially in the attack.
"Daryl Thompson will continue his invaluable contribution as a forwards coach with a specific scrum Focus" added Saunders. "His expertise in these areas is unparalleled, and we're fortunate to have him on board."
In an exciting development, former Stags international Lock Kane Thompson has joined Rugby Southland and the Stags coaching group. With a focus on the forwards and lineout, Thompson brings a wealth of experience, having played 33 tests for Samoa and currently serving as the forwards and defence coach of the New Orleans Gold in Major League Rugby.
"Kane's addition to our coaching staff is a significant boost for the coaching group and team," commented Steve Mitchell, CEO of Rugby Southland. "The vision of having good people with an engrained connection to Southland lead and coach this team is key. Kanes leadership and experience will be a great addition as we all strive towards success in the upcoming season and beyond."
Kane Thompson will join the Stags coaching group at the conclusion of the MLR season, further enriching the coaching expertise available to the team.
Additionally, Rugby Southland is proud to acknowledge the development of a second tier of local coaches who show promise for the future. This group of local club and representative coaches have been identified as potential future Southland-level coaching talents, who will have the opportunity to work alongside the Stags coaching group to further hone their skills and expertise. This is a key step towards developing the depth of local coaches alongside players.
"We are committed to nurturing local coaching talent and providing them with the support and opportunities they need to thrive," said Saunders. "The development of another group of aspiring coaches underscores our ongoing dedication to building a stronger rugby community in Southland."
Furthermore, David Hall, who previously served as a co-coach for the Stags in previous seasons, has joined the Community Rugby team as the club coach education lead. Hall's expertise and dedication to the sport will be instrumental in further enhancing coaching standards at the grassroots level within the Southland community.
The SBS Bank Southland Stags are gearing up for an exciting season ahead, and with a talented coaching lineup in place, the team is poised for success on the field.
