Mauger, Highlanders part ways
THE Highlanders are likely to look for an experienced head coach for next season, although money may limit their options.
The franchise announced yesterday it was parting ways with head coach Aaron Mauger, saying Mauger’s time with the Highlanders had ‘‘come to an end’’ after three seasons.
Mauger’s contract expired at the end of this season.
During his tenure, the Highlanders failed to record a 50% win record. Over three seasons they played 47 games for 21 wins, 24 losses and two draws.
Ultimately, results doomed Mauger, and, coupled with his inexperience as a head coach, the franchise decided to move in another direction.
Mauger (40) could not be reached for comment yesterday but said in a statement he had to be realistic about his time at the helm.
“Results are key to proving the quality of the structures you have put in place as a head coach. As our onfield results during my tenure haven’t been at the level we’ve all aspired to, it’s the head coach who must take responsibility for that,” Mauger said.
“I’ve worked with some topquality people who are outstanding at what they do and I wish them all the best going forward. Some real progress has been made in critical areas to aid future success and I’m confident the club will benefit from this down the track.”
The Highlanders have also lost assistant coach Mark Hammett, who has moved back to Christchurch, leaving the side with three coaches still on its books: Tony Brown, Clarke Dermody and Riki Flutey.