The Hurricanes have announced that All Blacks Sevens coach Clark Laidlaw will take over the helm of the club from next season.
Laidlaw takes over from Jason Holland who will be joining Scott Robertson’s coaching team with the All Blacks following this year’s World Cup.
The incoming Hurricanes boss has been at the helm of the All Blacks Sevens since 2018 and he experienced success throughout his tenure including series titles in 2018 and recently in 2023, silver at the 2021 Olympics and gold at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
Looking forward to the challenge
Laidlaw underlined his pride for the achievements made with the All Blacks Sevens but is looking forward to the challenge of leading the Hurricanes.
“I am really proud of all we have achieved with the All Blacks Sevens. We’ve seen a lot of success but also had our fair share of challenges,’’ Laidlaw said.
“The ability to coach a national team for pinnacle events, with the opportunities, learnings and team connections that come with it is really special. It felt like the right time to take on a new challenge as head coach of the Hurricanes, while building on what is already a really strong team.”
Hurricanes chief executive Avan Lee was delighted with the new appointment especially considering Laidlaw’s stint as assistant coach of the club prior to his stint in sevens.
“His coaching record speaks for itself in terms of success,” he said.
“He’s done a superb job for the Sevens, so we’re thrilled to see him return to the Hurricanes and continue to build on the great work of Jason Holland and the current wider coaching team.
“Clark will bring a unique set of skills to the Hurricanes and help our club realise its ambitions.
“Obviously, having been assistant coach to the Hurricanes from 2013-2015, he already has some fantastic connections and relationships in the club. We’re excited about what he will bring to the club on-field but also look forward to watching his influence on the culture and our people.”
Praise for a success sevens tenure
Meanwhile, New Zealand general manager of professional rugby and performance Chris Lendrum praised the selection of Laidlaw as the Hurricanes’ new head coach.
“Clark’s move to the Hurricanes is an exciting progression in his coaching career and is a great example of how new and different experiences develop our top coaches,” he said.
“He has constantly challenged himself throughout his six-year tenure with the All Blacks Sevens, developed a large number of young men on and off the field, and achieved a huge amount of success.”
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