Title winners appoint New Zealand legend Wayne Smith to new coaching role

New Zealand rugby coaching legend, Wayne Smith, known throughout the rugby world as ‘The Professor’, has been appointed as head of coaching at Japanese champions Kobe Steelers.

Smith, 69, has been involved with the club on and off since 2018, as a former General Manager and then ambassador, but will now have a more hands-on role, to ensure a smooth transition period following the loss of Japan Rugby League One-winning coach, Dave Rennie, to the All Blacks.

It’s been reported in the last few days that All Blacks 2011 World Cup winner, Andy Ellis, will be Rennie’s direct replacement, with Smith adding his vast experience to the coaching group.

Smith, World Rugby’s Coach of the Year in 2022, is one of the most respected and accomplished figures in New Zealand rugby, having enjoyed a remarkable career as both player and coach.

Having played 17 Tests for the All Blacks in the 1980s, he seamlessly transitioned to coaching, winning the Rugby World Cup twice with the All Blacks and once during an unbeaten stint with the Black Ferns, as well as four Super Rugby titles.

On being appointed to the role, Smith said that Japanese rugby has helped to shape his coaching philosophy. “I had a wonderful time with Kobe Kobelco Steelers for three seasons from 2018 to 2020. At that time, Dave Dillon was the head coach, and I was in charge of general management,” he said.

“Unfortunately, in 2020 the tournament was suspended due to the impact of the coronavirus, but we won the Top League 2018-2019 and the 56th Japan Championship for the second time in 15 seasons since the league’s inaugural year in 2003, and the Japan Championship for the first time in 18 seasons.

“My philosophy on rugby has never changed since I saw the Japanese national team visit New Zealand in 1968. I was 11 years old at the time, but I was captivated by their playing style. They didn’t rely heavily on kicking, but instead used quick ball movement, innovative lineouts, and backline attacks. Yoshihiro Sakata was my favorite player. Their rugby shaped my idea of ??”how rugby should be played.” And I have always tried to remain true to that style.

“That’s why I’m so excited to be able to work in Kobe again. As a member of the Kobelco Kobe Steelers, a team proud of its history and tradition, I will do my best to contribute to the further development of this team and achieve the goal of becoming the best in Japan.”