Tana Umaga leaves Moana Pasifika to take All Blacks defence coach job

Tana Umaga was left “speechless” after being offered the role of defence coach on Dave Rennie’s All Blacks coaching staff. He will leave his role as head coach of Moana Pasifika, but was proud to take on the new challenge. “I’m a little bit speechless, I suppose, in terms of the opportunity that’s been given to me,” Umaga said. “Proud’s an understatement really and to be back part of a team that holds a special place for me and my family and to get back in there, it’s unbelievable really. ” The former All Blacks captain said he signed the contract with the help of his daughters last night at the dinner table and was ready to take on the job. “I‘ve been fortunate enough to actually captain this side and that was a big job, and I had to understand that and then also understand what that comes with, the sacrifices that not just yourself, but your family have to make and so, I go in there with eyes wide open and understanding those pressures,” he said. Tana Umaga will leave Moana Pasifika for the All Blacks at the end of the Super Rugby season. Photo / Photosport “I know what I’m getting myself into and I’m looking forward to the challenge.” Umaga said leaving his role at Moana Pasifika was hard. “It’s going to be hard leaving, but I’m not going to be too far. I only live in the city, so, I’m still going to be supporting as I was.” He coached the original Moana Pasifika pilot team, which played the Māori All Blacks in 2021 and finished just outside the finals spots in Super Rugby last season. The former All Black also has coaching experience with French team Toulon, Counties Manukau and the Blues. Debbie Sorensen, CEO of Moana Pasifika, said the club were happy for Umaga. “We are immensely proud of Fa’alogo and could not be happier for his aiga,” Sorensen said. “Not only is this a huge moment for the franchise, but for our Pacific community and especially our younger generations, who get to see two leaders of Pacific heritage coaching the All Blacks.” All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie said the group of coaches recruited are experienced and highly skilled. Neil Barnes has been brought in as senior assistant coach, Scotsman Mike Blair is set to join as attack coach and Jason Ryan will remain in his role as forwards coach.

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