Mooar is handed the Scarlets reins
THE Scarlets have turned to Super Rugby champions the Crusaders for the man to replace Wayne Pivac as head coach.
The west Walians have appointed the highly-rated Brad Mooar, who is the attack coach at the Kiwi franchise.
Mooar has been assistant coach to Scott Robertson for the past three seasons, working with All Black stars Israel Dagg, Ryan Crotty, Richie Mo’unga as well as current Scarlets backs Johnny McNicholl and Kieron Fonotia.
The 44-year-old former solicitor has also been at the helm of New Zealand provincial side Southland Stags, has coached New Zealand Schools and Barbarians and has had a spell in South Africa with Eastern Province and the Southern Kings.
Scarlets general manager of rugby Jon Daniels said: “After a detailed and comprehensive search we are delighted to have secured an exceptional coach in Brad.
“As part of the recruitment process we have taken extensive references on all candidates and what came through loud and clear on Brad was that he is one of New Zealand’s best coaching prospects and destined for great things.
“Brad’s rugby philosophy, leadership style and personality are everything we were looking for in a head coach. “
Mooar, who is currently preparing for the 2019 Super Rugby season, said: “The Scarlets is a rugby brand that’s known the world over, it is a winning club with an extremely proud history, passionate fans, and is aspirational in its goals.
“It is humbling to be offered the opportunity to take the reins after the great work Wayne Pivac has led, as he moves on to the Wales job.
“In addition to Scarlets’ on-field rugby pedigree, with a strong squad of talented and largely homegrown players, the club represents its wider community with great pride and dedication.
“My family and I are looking forward to being a part of the wider Scarlets community integrating into life in West Wales.”
■ The lowdown on Mooar: Page 46