Fulltime role for Moore
GLENN Moore has been confirmed as Black Ferns head coach through to the 2021 World Cup.
The former Highlanders coach will move into the role fulltime for the first time, it was announced yesterday.
Alongside coaching the national side, Moore will also focus on talent identification throughout the provincial unions — each of which now delivers Black Ferns high performance programmes.
He said the next two years would be crucial before the World Cup which will be hosted in New Zealand.
‘‘To play in a World Cup at home is special. We know as current world champions we have a target on our back and it’s an exciting time to be involved.’’
‘‘Over the past couple of years there’s been massive growth in the top end of the women’s game.
‘‘Our talent pool is deeper than it’s ever been so players are working hard to secure a black jersey and have a desire to get better.
‘‘As a coach that’s exactly what you want.’’
Moore said his new fulltime role would allow him to spend more time with players outside of the team environment.
‘‘It means I can help players improve their training and skills by providing feedback throughout the year.
‘‘We’ll be able to prepare in a much more consistent way and take things a step up.’’
New Zealand Rugby head of women’s rugby Cate Sexton congratulated Moore.
‘‘Glenn is a real champion for women’s rugby and is very invested in helping grow our talent pool.
‘‘He brings a wealth of experience having coached at both provincial union and Super Rugby levels before he joined the Black Ferns.
‘‘He’s been instrumental in developing the culture of the Black Ferns and steering the team into the semiprofessional era.
‘‘We’re really pleased to have Glenn on board as we navigate this new and exciting time for women’s rugby.
‘‘He brings stability to our programme during a period of rapid growth and when we have a massive challenge ahead of us in hosting a Rugby World Cup.’’