The former Waikato rugby coach Chris Gibbes has been appointed as the Wellington Lions head coach for the next three years.
Former Waikato head coach Chris Gibbes, who will coach the Wellington Lions in 2017. Photo: Photosport
The 43-year-old has spent the last four years as the forwards coach at top Welsh club Ospreys.
Gibbes, who was New Zealand Under 20s assistant coach in 2013, said the opportunity to return home and work with one of the country's premier provincial unions was too good to pass up.
"I've been away from home for nearly four years now, so when this exciting opportunity came up it seemed like the right time for me. It was too good to turn down" said Gibbes.
"Wellington are a province with a proud history and real ambition for the future, combined with excellent facilities and the squad depth needed to be successful, including some great young talent. That's an exciting mix."
Gibbes became Waikato's assistant coach in 2008 and was appointed head coach the following year, leading the Mooloo Men to back to back national provincial championship finals in 2010 and 2011, before bringing the Ranfurly Shield back to Hamilton in 2012.
After four years in Hamilton, Gibbes was head-hunted by Ospreys and headed to Wales in 2013.
He replaces former head coach Earl Va'a in the Lions head coach role, who stepped down last year after failing to coach Wellington back into the top-tier Mitre10 Cup Premiership division.
The Lions assistant coach is expected to be announced shortly.
- RNZ
