Bryce Woodward appointed Blues Assistant Coach
allblacks.com - (11/08/2010)
Northland Coach Bryce Woodward has been appointed Assistant Coach of the Blues, the New Zealand Rugby Union and Blues franchise announced today.
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With several seasons under his belt as coach of Northland, Woodward has twice coached the New Zealand Under 21 side to world champion titles, and this year he coached the Blues Development Squad.
NZRU General Manager of Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said Woodward’s existing connections with the Blues made him an ideal fit for the franchise.
“Bryce has been a stalwart of provincial and national representative rugby over the past decade. He is highly regarded in the New Zealand coaching environment and it’s great to have him on board supporting Pat. This is a very good move for him and for the Blues,” Sorensen said.
Blues Chief Executive Andy Dalton also welcomed Woodward’s appointment.
“Bryce’s coaching experience is significant, both with provincial and national squads. As current coach of Northland he is already immersed in the Blues franchise and we believe will be a valuable addition to the Blues coaching line up.”
Bryce Woodward said he was excited and ready to step up to his new role.
“This is a natural move for me and I’m looking forward to working with Pat and the team. At the same time, I am delighted I can continue my commitment to Northland’s ITM Cup campaign this year,” he said.
Woodward coached Northland in 1999 – 2002 and returned to the province last year. He coached the New Zealand Under 21 side during 2002 – 2005 and the team came away with World Champion titles in 2003 and 2004. This year he coached the New Zealand Barbarians side against the New Zealand Maori, in the opening match of the special Sealord New Zealand Maori Centenary Series.