Blues statement: Coaching options remain on the table

Blues head coach Sir John Kirwan. Photo / Jason Oxenham

The Blues have released a statement today on the future of the coaching structure at the franchise.

Blues chair Tony Carter has stated that two options remain on the table around the coaching structure for 2016 - reappointing incumbent head coach John Kirwan or creating a contestable process for the head coach and vacant positions.

Yesterday Crusaders assistant Tabai Matson said he would see out his contract with the Christchurch-based side till the end of 2016, ending speculation that he was to sign on with the Blues as Kirwan's assistant for next season before taking up the head coaching role in 2017.

Carter says that media speculation has contributed to the future coaching structure process being compromised.

"The Blues have not and cannot comment on potential candidates in keeping with participants' expectation of confidentiality," Carter said in the statement.

"The impact on the Blues current coaching staff and players is unacceptable. Blues management remains focused on supporting the staff and players as they prepare for the remaining home games," he added.

The Blues face the Bulls at Eden Park tonight, looking for their third win from 13 games this season.

Full Blues statement:

Prior to the beginning of the 2015 Super Rugby season the Blues board, in consultation with NZ Rugby, agreed a process and timetable to review its coaching structure for 2016.

A robust process has been underway since early April. The Blues board has narrowed its focus to two clear options; to reappoint incumbent Head Coach Sir John Kirwan as part of a restructured coaching group; or to create a contestable process for the Head Coach and vacant positions.

Both options remain on the table.

In the process of considering the first option confidential information has been leaked to the media from various sources about potential scenarios and candidates. While the information has not always been accurate, it has undermined the process and created inappropriate pressure on various participants.

Everyone involved in an employment review or recruitment process should be able to rely on confidentiality. Media speculation has contributed to the process being compromised. The Blues have not and cannot comment on potential candidates in keeping with participants' expectation of confidentiality.

The impact on the Blues current coaching staff and players is unacceptable. Blues management remains focused on supporting the staff and players as they prepare for the remaining home games. Under the circumstances the commitment of Blues players and staff has been exemplary.

As may be expected individual board members have strong views on coaching issues and as the Constitution requires consensus on this matter, it is important that the Board continues to discuss alternatives to achieve that consensus.

Blues management will continue with due diligence on the coaching options in front of the board. No further comment on coaching will be made until a decision has been reached.

We acknowledge the support of our valued sponsors, members and supporters and thank them for their understanding.

Tony Carter
Chair
The Blues