Waratahs announce Daryl Gibson's replacement as head coach

The Waratahs have announced Rob Penney as their new head coach for the next three years.

The former Munster boss has signed a three-year deal with NSW Rugby, seeing him remain in New South Wales until the end of the 2022 season.

Penney brings a strong pedigree to his newest coaching role, having coached Canterbury to four consecutive National Provincial Championship (now Mitre 10 Cup) titles between 2008 and 2011.

He took the New Zealand U20s to a Junior World Championship final in 2012, finishing runners-up to South Africa, before moving to the Pro 14 with Munster.

Heineken Cup semi-finalists in 2013 and 2014, Munster made their way to a Pro 14 semi-final in 2014 – with Penney also named Pro 14 Coach of the Year.

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A move to Japan would follow with the NTT Communications in Japan’s Top League, securing play off appearances on two occasions.

NSW Rugby Union CEO, Andrew Hore said that Penney’s appointment would help drive the organisation’s strategic vision for the game in New South Wales.

“Rob is an extremely experienced coach who embodies the characteristics we [Performance Committee] identified for our ideal candidate,” Hore said.

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“This position was one which drew a vast level of interest from across world rugby, Rob’s appointment is the result of an exhaustive recruitment process – speaking volumes for the calibre of coach we’ve been able to secure for the [NSW] Waratahs.

“With a strong history of player development across each of his previous roles, I have no doubt Rob will harness the wealth of talent coming though our pathways and build sustainable success for the [NSW] Waratahs in Super Rugby.

“Rob understands the connection between our NSW Rugby pathways and competitions and the [NSW] Waratahs, and is keen to embrace the strategic vision of our entire organisation.

“This is an exciting time for the [NSW] Waratahs and I’d like to welcome Rob on board.”

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Penney said it was an honour to be appointed head coach of the NSW Waratahs.

“The Waratahs are an organisation revered throughout world rugby, with a proud history of performance and player development,” said Penney.

“To be given the opportunity to help this playing group get the most out of both themselves as individuals and as a collective is an exciting one.

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“I’m looking forward to contributing to the betterment of Australian rugby, ensuring we have a working environment at the [NSW] Waratahs to foster the young talent already assembled.

“To see players grow, develop and reach their own personal goals is a hugely satisfying part of coaching – one I’m personally looking forward to here in Australia.

“Ultimately, I want our players to represent the jersey with pride and ensure New South Wales continues to be a leader in Australian rugby.”

Rob Penney career overview:

2003 – 2005: Assistant Coach (Forwards), Canterbury – National Provincial Championship
2005: Assistant Coach, Crusaders – Super 12
2006 – 2011: Head Coach, Canterbury – National Provincial Championship
2012: Head Coach, New Zealand U20s
2012 – 2014: Head Coach, Munster – Pro 14
2015 – 2018: Head Coach, NTT Communications – Top League
2019: Head Coach, Toyota Shokki Industries – Top Challenge League

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