Jono Gibbes new man in charge for Waikato

Just days after the announcement that he is leaving Pro14 side Ulster at the end of the season, Jono Gibbes has been named the new head coach of Waikato’s Mitre 10 Cup team.

When Gibbes announced his departure from Ulster, he cited family reasons as the main influence on his decision.

“Being a long way from home for the last ten years has made me prioritise things above my career and so I’ll be returning at the end of this season for family reasons.”

41-year-old Gibbes takes over a Waikato side fresh off relegation.

Gibbes said “For me, it is an honour to have the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of previous Waikato coaches, who all contributed to the proud history of the province. With the opportunity comes the responsibility to do the colours justice. That has to be the first objective for myself and for the 2018 team.”

Waikato CEO Blair Foote said “The Waikato Rugby Union is very pleased to announce Jono Gibbes as the new Head Coach of the Mitre 10 Cup team for the 2018 season. He brings a wealth of experience and successful coaching knowledge to the position gained over the last 10 years in the European competitions, and being a former player for the province, he also brings an understanding of the pride and passion playing in a red, yellow and black jersey requires.

Gibbes played 64 matches for Waikato from 2000 to 2007.