The Manawatū Turbos have their Assistant Coaches locked in for 2024, with Robbie Robinson joining the coaching set up and Hayden Triggs returning for a second season.

Robinson will lead the Turbos’ attack, while Triggs will lead the set piece and breakdown.

Robinson will be known to many for his playing career, which included 61 games for Southland , two seasons with the Highlanders, and two Super Rugby titles with the Chiefs. He also played six games for the Māori All Blacks. After his career in New Zealand, Robinson played extensively in Japan.

Robinson says he is excited to start his coaching journey with the Manawatū Turbos.

“I was inspired by their vision to grow their game and the group of people that they have put in place to drive their goals. I am passionate about showing people everything that is good about rugby and the challenge that lies ahead with the Manawatū Turbos is one I’m stoked to be a part of.”

Turbos Coach Mike Rogers says Robinson stood out among a very strong group of candidates.

“Whilst he is a young coach, Robbie brings with him extensive knowledge of attack from his time as a professional rugby player and we are confident that he will challenge our players in the right ways.

“We tasked candidates to explore their version of what the game of the future might look like. Robbie had a clear view of optimism that rugby can move back towards a high-paced, less structured and more dynamic version of itself.  What you will see from the Turbos in 2024 is an exciting, less-structured, and more free approach to attack.”

Having served as Turbos Assistant Coach in 2023, Triggs has now joined Manawatū Rugby on a full-time basis. As well as his role with the Turbos, Triggs is the union’s Pathways Coach and working in Coach Development, helping local coaches achieve their Levels 1, 2, and 3 qualifications. 

Triggs says, “I’m stoked to be back with Mike and now with the addition of Robbie to our group to build on some positive advances from last year. Our group will build on the experience of 2023 to be better.

“My new role of identifying, fostering and building up our Academy space is an area I am really looking forward to. I’m equally excited by the opportunity to identify and develop the coaches in the region and guide them through a career in schools, clubs and beyond. It’s a great opportunity to create a group of coaches to take Manawatū Rugby into the future."

Triggs has a long association with Manawatū Rugby, having played 71 games for the province. He had an extensive Super Rugby career that saw him represent all the New Zealand franchises except the Crusaders. Triggs also played nine games for the Māori All Blacks.

Article added: Tuesday 05 March 2024