Central Bay of Plenty's new regional rugby manager wants to "ignite" the local game, improve the coaching and players.
Iharaira (Lipi) Sinnott returns home to Rotorua for the role with a wealth of experience and expertise.
He has been coaching in France since 2007 where he was most recently the defence and individual performance coach for the Oyonnax rugby team.
Previously he worked as the defence and skills coach for the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union from 1989-2002. During his time with the Hurricanes as the Super Rugby franchise's assistant manager for recovery and logistics from 2000–2006 he was also responsible for the recovery and logistics of the All Blacks from 2000–2003.
Sinnott said he was excited to return home and work with the Central Bay of Plenty community and lead them in fostering the development of rugby.
"After being in France for 10 years it was time to come home, plus my wife had brain surgery and I needed to come home to be with her.
"This job was available so I put my foot forward. I played for Waikite all my life and did some coaching and physical training there before moving to the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union."
Iharaira (Lipi) Sinnott is the Central Bay of Plenty regional rugby manager. Photo / Ben Fraser
His new role was to lead the development and growth of coaching, plus increase participation within clubs and schools.
"We need players, definitely, that's one thing I'm working on with the clubs. From 10 years ago it has waned a wee bit, we need to work a little bit more closely with the schools.
"The other thing is, I think we've relied on our successes over the years, there hasn't been too much vision, and people want to do other things these days. There's a lot of things and some big challenges, not only for me, but for the clubs and the Central Bay of Plenty sub-union. But I think they are good challenges, because you can turn them around."
He said the aspect of the job he was most looking forward to was "seeing people smiling and enjoying themselves".
"I'm here for the rugby. That's what I always enjoyed, seeing the passion out on the field. I watched Rotoiti and Waikite [during the pre-season] and some passion was coming back, the big hits and good crowds. Then I shot up to Ngongotaha and there was a huge crowd, they're real derby matches. It's about going out there and giving it a crack."
Rugby, and sport in general, is constantly evolving and Sinnott said it was important to adapt.
"Rugby has changed, we've got to change and if we don't change we'll be left behind."
Bay of Plenty Rugby operations manager Neil Alton said Sinnott's appointment would provide a positive contribution to the growth and development of rugby within Central Bay of Plenty.
"Lipi will bring a huge amount of knowledge acquired from his time in a number of high level rugby environments, which he will be able to pass on to coaches and players in the region.
"Lipi is also passionate about making a difference to his community and I have no doubt he will do this with the support of the clubs and schools."
