Māori All Blacks: Ross Filipo named head coach as management confirmed

By Isaac Gunson Te Ao Maori News

Other·

27 May, 2024 01:31 AM3 mins to read

New head coach of the Māori All Blacks, Ross Filipo. Photo / WRU

Previously published on Te Ao Māori News

Chiefs assistant coach Ross Filipo (Muaūpoko) has been appointed head coach of the Māori All Blacks, leading the team’s return to the international stage for two matches against the Japan XV in late June and early July.

Filipo, a former Māori All Blacks player and a member of the team that made history by defeating the British and Irish Lions in 2005, expressed excitement and a sense of responsibility in his new role.

“When I received the news that I was successful, I was excited about the opportunity to again add to the legacy of the Māori All Blacks but in a coaching capacity. I understand there is a huge responsibility attached to this role and will do my absolute best to ensure our traditions are protected and preserved. I also hope to inspire young Māori with our on-field performances,” the 45-year-old said.

Joining Filipo in the coaching team are Roger Randle (Ngāti Awa) and Greg Feek (Ngāti Kahungunu) as assistant coaches.

Randle, who currently works with Filipo as a Chiefs assistant coach, brings over a decade of coaching experience, including five years with the Māori All Blacks.

Feek’s role as an assistant coach comes after a nine-year tenure with Ireland, a recent role as the All Blacks scrum coach and a stint with the Blues in 2023.

“Working alongside two experienced assistants is going to be awesome for my personal growth and development. I want to ensure I provide them with a programme that enables them to thrive as coaches, while I learn as much as I can from them,” Filipo added.

New Zealand Māori Rugby Board chair Professor Dame Farah Palmer (Ngāti Maniapoto, Waikato), praised the coaching appointments and the expertise they bring to the team.

“I want to congratulate each individual and their whānau on their achievement. I also want to congratulate Ross on his head coach appointment and I’m looking forward to seeing how he will set the team up for success in Japan,” Palmer said.

“One of our pillars in the New Zealand Māori rugby strategy is puawaitanga – enhancing Māori through rugby. Working on the Māori All Blacks tour will be another great opportunity to showcase Māori rugby and Te Ao Māori on the global stage.”

Filipo is set to front media this afternoon from Waikato.