Leon MacDonald re-signs with NZR and the Blues

Blues Head Coach Leon MacDonald has recommitted to New Zealand Rugby and the Blues for a further two years.

MacDonald, who guided the Blues to this year’s Sky Super Rugby Trans-Tasman title has overseen significant development in the playing squad since taking over as Head Coach in 2019 and leading a new coaching group including Tom Coventry, Daniel Halangahu, Tana Umaga and Ben Afeaki.

The former All Black moved into coaching after injury forced his retirement from the game, fashioning an impressive record as Head Coach at the Tasman Mako before heading north to the Blues.

MacDonald, 43, said he was looking forward to leading the Blues for a further two-years.

“From a rugby standpoint this club has made huge strides, but we know there is a lot more to do. We also know there is a massive talent-pool here and our development as a Super Rugby club has so much potential,” he said.

“We are developing strong connections within our three provincial unions with a clear focus on growing the game on and off the field for players, coaches and staff.

“I am excited by that challenge and looking forward to the opportunities ahead of us.

“Off the field my wife and family have grown to love this place. It is a fantastic city which really offers something for everyone.”

MacDonald said a key reason for extending his stay at the Blues was the quality of his coaching group led by assistant coaches Coventry, Halangahu, Afeaki, and Umaga, who recently stepped down as defence coach to pursue his family business interest.

“Tana will be sorely missed for his work both on and off the field, but at the same time a new coach will bring a new dimension and hopefully challenge us on our thoughts and processes,” MacDonald said.

He said the Blues also had a top-class support staff led by strength and conditioning coach Phil Healey.

Blues CEO Andrew Hore said he and his Board were thrilled that MacDonald had agreed to stay at the helm.

“Leon has guided our group who have developed into an excellent coaching team, and a superb staff not only in their individual roles, but collectively into a group who are fully supportive of our culture and heritage, our connections with our provincial unions and development pathways, and to bring pride to our region.”

NZR General Manager Professional Rugby & High Performance, Chris Lendrum said:

“To retain a coach of Leon’s quality and experience is a great result for New Zealand Rugby and the Blues.

“He has earned the respect of his players both as a person and a coach that is borne out with the results he’s achieved with Tasman at Bunnings NPC level and the Blues in Sky Super Rugby Trans-Tasman.

“I’m sure he will continue to make a positive impact to his playing group in the coming seasons and we look forward his on-going contribution in Super Rugby Pacific.”