Rugby: Sir John Kirwan reflects on coaching career, admits he may never coach again

Sir John Kirwan. Photo / Northern Advocate Photograph by Tania Whyte

Sir John Kirwan's rugby coaching career could be over.

In a lengthy interview with 66 magazine, the All Blacks great reflected on his time as a coach, admitting that he doesn't plan on coaching again.

"I never say never, but I'm not planning on coaching again," Kirwan told 66 magazine.

After a storied All Blacks career, Kirwan coached for over 15 years, which included a tumultuous three years with the Blues.

Under Kirwan's tenure, the Blues finished 10th in 2013 and 2014, and 14th in 2015 – their worst season in franchise history. He resigned in June of 2015 having led the Auckland side to just 16 wins while at the club.

The 53-year-old didn't give any excuses but said he would have liked more time to turn things around at the club.

"I worked all my life to get my dream job and I failed," Kirwan said.

"It was horrible. I wasn't sleeping. I'd made a lot of mistakes but it was a five-year turnaround not a three-year turnaround."

Kirwan said the experience at the Blues took a huge toll on him but that it also helped him grow both personally and professionally.

"I've always taken the opportunities that have been presented and that hasn't always been easy. I've been scared at times, totally out of my depth. But all those experiences have helped me grow.

"The Blues was one of the best things to happen to me, it just didn't work out. It was a testing time for me, my mental health and my career. After that experience I took some time off to realise what I would do.

"I love the game. I still love the Blues. The game has given me everything, so how can you turn your back on a game that has given you everything and not still love it?"

Kirwan is still involved in the sport as a TV pundit and is a strong advocate for mental health and depression awareness.