Martin appointed Otago NPC coach

Steve Martin was today named the new Otago NPC rugby coach.

Martin, 47, replaces Wayne Graham who stood down after guiding Otago to the NPC final this year following a two-year stint as head coach.

Martin, who played 23 games for Otago at halfback, coached University A to premiership wins in 2003 and 2004 and has been assistant coach of the Otago B and Colts teams.

He has also served as resource and staff coach for the New Zealand Rugby Union and has management experience with various Otago teams.

"I'm well aware of the expectations placed on the Otago team by the Otago public, and rightly so," Martin said.

"But Otago have performed well this year and my immediate task is to build on the good work that Wayne and his team have done".

Otago Rugby Union chief executive Russell Gray said Martin bought a wealth of experience to the position.

"We were fortunate to have a strong field from which to choose and it's particularly gratifying that we're able to stay in the province".

- NZPA