Former Stags forward added to coaching staff this season
Former Southland Stags forward Kane Thompson is the new addition to the Southland Stags’ coaching set-up for the 2024 National Provincial Championship.
Thompson played lock or number eight for Southland during his time in the deep south.
He played in 35 matches for the Stags over two different stages, a three-year stretch between 2005 and 2007 where he racked up 22 games, and then again in 2010 where he donned the maroon jumper another 13 times.
Thompson also went on to represent Samoa on 33 occasions, including while he was linked to Southland and appeared for the Highlanders on 14 occasions.
The robust forward played his club rugby for Woodlands in Invercargill, while he was in the deep south.
The 42-year-old will focus on the forwards and lineout. Thompson brings a wealth of experience from his playing days and is currently the forwards and defence coach of the New Orleans Gold in Major League Rugby.
“Kane’s addition to our coaching staff is a significant boost for the coaching group and team,” Rugby Southland chief executive Steve Mitchell said.
“The vision of having good people with an ingrained connection to Southland lead and coach this team is key. Kane’s leadership and experience will be a great addition as we all strive towards success in the upcoming season and beyond.”
Thompson would join the Stags coaching group at the conclusion of the MLR season, further enriching the coaching expertise available to the team.
Rugby Southland said it was pleased to announce the confirmed coaching lineup for the SBS Bank Southland Stags. With a blend of experience and fresh perspectives, the coaching staff was geared up to lead the team to success in the upcoming season.
Matt Saunders, in his capacity as Rugby Southland's director of rugby, would take the helm overseeing the programme.
After a year of observation in 2023, Saunders was ready to take a more handson approach, bringing his wealth of knowledge and strategic insight to guide the team.
“I’m thrilled to be taking a more active role in the SBS Bank Southland Stags coaching setup,” Saunders said.
“As we focus on developing our players, it's equally important to develop our next generation of coaches. We have a talented group of coaches who are dedicated to nurturing our players and fostering a culture of excellence.”
Continuing in his third season, James Wilson would play a pivotal role in the preparation leading up to the team’s assembly in July.
His expertise and dedication were expected to be instrumental in shaping the team’s performance on the field, particularly in the attack.
“Daryl Thompson will continue his invaluable contribution as a forwards coach with a specific scrum focus,” Saunders said.
“His expertise in these areas is unparalleled, and we're fortunate to have him on board.
“We are committed to nurturing local coaching talent and providing them with the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
“The development of another group of aspiring coaches underscores our ongoing dedication to building a stronger rugby community in Southland.”
Furthermore, David Hall, who previously served as a co-coach for the Stags in previous seasons, joined the community rugby team as the club coach education lead.