‘Winner’ Rudan wants change at Phoenix
sprint programme fail to deliver a medal. The men’s team slipped to sixth as they tried to peak for two events in five weeks.
“We’re in a competitive sport, and sometimes because of our success I think there’s a perception we just roll off to worlds and come home with a tin of medals,” Peden said post-Commonwealth Games.
“In reality, it’s not that easy. Big nations with big budgets are doing some great things.
“We’re doing the best with what we’ve got.”
Matheson said Peden and CNZ had been talking for a while about the coach’s future.
“It’s been a tough journey through the world championships and Commonwealth Games, so it [Peden’s decision] hasn’t come out of the blue.”
Assistant coach Jono Hamlin will cover Peden’s role in the interim, with Cycling NZ to start the search for a suitable replacement in the near future.
Matheson wouldn’t comment on whether they would be seeking out a return for Grace, who is contracted to
Britain. You only get one chance to make a good first impression.
Mark Rudan certainly did that on his first day as head coach of Wellington Phoenix Football Club yesterday.
Unveiled in front of a room filled with media, sponsors, fans and the club’s staff and owners, the Australian fixed the gathered throng with a resolute gaze and vividly outlined his vision for the team he is about to inherit — one which has endured a difficult twelve months.
“It certainly needs to change in a lot of areas,” Rudan said.
“There will be changes. The players, staff and all the stakeholders involved in the football club will understand exactly where we’re heading. That is to be successful, both on and off the park.
“There will be certain nonnegotiables along the way, but it’s not a dictatorship. I want to see a change in how people view the club, what
we are about and what we stand for. You’ll find that out.”
Rudan tasted plenty of on-field success in a 17-year playing career that included stints not only in his home country, but also in Germany, China, Malaysia, Switzerland and Japan.
He captained Sydney FC to the inaugural A-League Championship in 2005/06 and had a further two seasons with the Sky Blues before ending his career at Adelaide United in 2009/10 and moving into coaching.
He has previously worked as an assistant coach with the Australian under-20 side and guided the Sydney United 58 club to two NSW National Premier League titles.
The 42-year old has quickly gained a reputation for instilling a dedicated work ethic in his squads and creating a culture and environment which leads to success. He is also renowned for getting the best from the players and resources avail- able to him, a skill which could prove extremely valuable in Wellington.
Rudan yesterday revealed his recruitment for next season has already started — with just 11 players signed for the 2018/19 campaign.
However, it’s understood Roy Krishna may soon qualify for New Zealand residency which would free up one of the five valuable import spots on the Phoenix roster.
“I’ve got the ability to bring in half a squad. That’s going to be extremely important,” said Rudan.
“You’ll see a team that’s going to be very well-structured and very well-disciplined. They’ll understand their roles clearly.
“There will be a big fighting element to us. It’s going to be us against the rest of Australia.
“That’s clear and apparent and we’re going to embrace that challenge. You’re going to see a team that Wellingtonians can be very proud of, I can guarantee you that.
“I’m a winner. I hate losing. The players will find that out very quickly.”
It is unclear where current assistant coach Chris Greenacre fits into the future equation. Rudan didn’t confirm that he’ll be part of his coaching team, but spoke in glowing terms about Greenacre’s loyalty and honesty and how highly he rates those qualities. The smart money is on the popular Englishman remain
ing involved in some capacity.