Nic White returns to Super Rugby as assistant coach

Ex-Wallabies halfback Nic White has started a new chapter in his rugby career, joining the Western Force coaching group under Simon Cron.

White will act as skills coach, having retired for the second and final time in September last year.

The 35-year-old brings 77 Test caps of experience to the role, and is familiar with the Western Force coaching group after spending the last two years of his playing career in Perth. White acted as vice-captain in both seasons with the Force.

Force head coach Simon Cron said: “We’re delighted to have Nic stay within our four walls and come on board as an assistant coach.

“He has a wealth of experience as a player, he’s familiar with our group, and he’ll bring specialist insights for our developing players in a high mentorship role.

“He has a very competitive mentality that will help drive standards and expectations.

“For Nic, this role gives him an apprenticeship with specific targets and touchpoints and an insight into the other side of the game, coaching.”

White joins backs coach James Stannard, defence coach Brad Harris, and forwards coach Craig Dunlea under Cron.

Cron added: “Nic’s appointment also allows symmetry from the coaching group and adds a different challenge to allow us to grow and evolve.”

White was excited to get the new role underway, recognising there was no time like the present to transition into coaching.

“This is an exciting step for me,” White said. “This feels like the natural progression for me out of playing to move into coaching.

“I know this playing group really well and I feel that I’ve got heaps to offer them. My mind is still there but I can’t do it physically anymore.

“I can’t wait to work with the players and coaches and optimistic about where we can go.”