Mauger to launch significant Canterbury rugby coaching programme for young players

Former All Black Nathan Mauger today announced the launch of a significant Canterbury coaching programme to improve junior schoolboy rugby in the region.

The junior academy, Mauger Developments Rugby, has the backing of All Black Dan Carter and Crusaders assistant coach Daryl Gibson. The first intake begins at Christchurch Boys’ High School, Mauger’s old school, on October 12.

This will involve coaching three groups of boys 11 to 12 years, 13 to 14 years and 15 to 16 years every Monday for the school term. It’s believed the programme targeted at junior players and to be expanded next year will be the only one of its kind in New Zealand.

Midfield Mauger played two games for the All Blacks and 38 times for the Crusaders between 1999 and 2004. He was the top try-scorer for Canterbury for two seasons before heading overseas to play for Gloucester in England, Benetton in Italy, Toulon in France and Ricoh in Japan.

He said today he felt compelled to launch the junior schoolboy coaching programme to assist with the development of the young rugby players in the region and give something back to Canterbury rugby.

``The earlier a young player begins to work on the fundamentals of the game the better quality of footballer he will be. My experiences as a professional player gives me the opportunity to pass on to younger players the knowledge I have acquired. I also see this programme as a vehicle for positive role modelling.’’

Carter said the Mauger development school was a great initiative for rugby.

``Knowing Nathan and the experience he has to offer to young rugby players I see the programme being a huge advantage for those that take part in it. Having come through the age grades I know the benefits of putting in a lot of hard work practicing the basics of the game. I wish the programme every success.’’

Gibson said it was great for Canterbury rugby to see the formation and launch of Mauger Developments Rugby because he sees the game would benefit and as the players developed.

``There is a real need in our game for a specially focussed development school for aspiring players in the 11-17 year aged group. What I like about it, is it helps all players not just those at the elite level,’’ Gibson said.

``I played rugby with Nathan for several years and I know he brings quality knowledge, experience and enthusiasm to training and will really develop these young players. This is fantastic for the province.’’