Cooper steps down as coach of New Zealand Maori
Colin Cooper is stepping down as head coach of New Zealand Maori to focus on his new role in charge of the Chiefs. Cooper, who takes over from Dave Rennie as head coach at the Super Rugby franchise next year, has been in charge of the Maori side since 2013 and was disappointed to have to leave a position which had given him joy and satisfaction.
New Zealand Rugby said they had commenced their search for a new head coach. ‘‘For me person- ally, being part of this great group of young men has been a very special experience,’’ Cooper said.
‘‘I’m really proud of the players and management team who have all added immense value and contributed positively to the legacy of the Maori jersey.’’ Under Cooper’s watch, New Zealand Maori played and beat six national sides, played in six other countries including the United States and Canada, and played a historical, although disappointing, match at home against the British and Irish Lions.
With a total of 10 matches with the team to his credentials, Cooper also helped 10 Maori players earn selection into the All Blacks.
A total 18 players donned jerseys between 2013 and 2017. ‘‘I’m very proud of the fact that we have helped these players to be better people through a special environment that brings together professional rugby standards and both tikanga Maori.
‘‘We’ve seen many players develop professionally and culturally, and that’s added an extra layer to their armour as high-performance New Zealand rugby players.’’ Cooper acknowledged all his management team but in particular was grateful for the wisdom and guidance from team Kaumatua Luke Crawford. He said he was excited that the Maori programme was more widely recognised as potential pathway to the All Blacks and had evolved into a programme that professional players trusted would be good for their careers. New Zealand Rugby Maori Board chair Dr Farah Palmer thanked Cooper for his dedication and loyalty to the team.
‘‘Colin has been a fantastic leader for this team and his departure will be a huge loss but we’re glad he is not lost to rugby altogether. [The team] are a big hit with rugby fans when they travel overseas and, together with their style of pla, and a strong cultural identity, Colin has been a big part of ensuring they represented New Zealand rugby and Maoridom proudly.’’