Big Chief: Mcmillan to extend coaching term
Results with Steamers and Ma¯ori All Blacks made interim coach a great fit at next level
The Chiefs have announced interim head coach Clayton Mcmillan has signed on as an assistant coach for 2022 and 2023. Bay of Plenty’s Mcmillanwas appointed interim head coach for this year’s Super Rugby campaign while Warren Gatland leads the British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa.
Mcmillan said he wasgrateful for the opportunity to continue his coaching journey with the Chiefs.
“Iamstoked to have signed on for another couple of years post-2021 and I amincredibly grateful for the opportunity,” he said.
“The club has shownfaith inmy ability by extendingmycontract at this early stage, which demonstrates an organisation with a clear vision for its future and I amexcited to be a part of that.”
Mcmillan is excited by the prospect of being mentored by Gatland.
“I have already formed a good relationship with Gats. Hewas extremely welcoming in 2020 and allowedmetocomein and see the organisation from the top down. We have caught upnumerous times since andwewill continue to build on our relationship.
“Personally, a significant attraction formecoming to the Chiefs was to have the opportunity to work alongside Gats. Heis one of the world’s most successful coaches.
“I have always been ahead coach, so inmanyrespects Iwill relish the opportunity to step back and be mentored by somebodyof his experience and stature.
“It is only going to helpmeinmy coaching journey,” Mcmillan said.
Chiefs Rugby Club chief executive Michael Collins said itwas great to have Mcmillan signed with the club for a further two years.
“Weare thrilled he is committed to staying on with the Gallagher Chiefs for the 2022 and 2023 seasons as an assistant coach.
“Clayton has a great record of results from coaching the Bay of Plenty Steamers and thema¯ori All Blacks. Heis a proven leaderwho understands our Chiefs culture.
“Clayton and Gatty have formed a good working relationship and this combination is going to be fundamentally important for the growth and development of our club,” Collins said.
“Clayton has already had a positive impact since he joined us andweare excited to see himlead the Gallagher Chiefs this coming Sky Super Rugby season.”
Gatland said he was pleased to have Mcmillan continue in the coaching group.
“I’m absolutely delighted that Clayton has been appointed in a longterm role with the Gallagher Chiefs,” he said.
“He is extremely well respected in thegameand what he has achieved with Bay of Plenty and thema¯ori All Blacks gives him the credit he deserves coming into these roles as head coach for this season and continuing as assistant coachwhen I return.”