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Crusaders Backs Coach Andrew Goodman set to take up new role at Leinster

Crusaders Backs Coach Andrew Goodman has confirmed he will move on from the club at the conclusion of the 2022 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season, to take up the role of Backs and Attack Coach with Irish club, Leinster.



"I'm really grateful to Razor for giving me a chance back in 2018 and for all of the opportunities I've had to grow in this environment over the past five years," Goodman said.



"This club is like family and I've been fortunate to be able to do what I love alongside coaches and management who have also become great mates. I also have to thank the playing group, who have trusted and supported me, and contributed a lot to my development as a coach. It wasn't an easy decision to leave but I'm excited to be heading back to Dublin with my family and linking up with a club I represented as a player."



Goodman, a former Tasman Mako representative and captain, spent time overseas in both Japan and Ireland, which included playing 17 games for Leinster between 2012-2014. On his return to New Zealand, he became head of the Nelson College rugby academy, before joining the Tasman coaching group in 2016. Alongside Clarke Dermody, Goodman was promoted to the joint Head Coach role in 2019, leading the Mako to back-to-back national provincial championships. 

 


During the Crusaders' successful 2018 and 2019 Super Rugby seasons, the 39-year-old assisted with team defence and individual technical development. He was promoted to the role of Backs Coach for the Crusaders in 2020, and is committed to the Manu Samoa national side through to the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge said: "As sad as we are to see Goody and his family leave the club, we know how ambitious he is and this is an exciting opportunity for him to continue to develop as a coach.



"He's earned the respect of so many in his time with the Crusaders and Tasman, and departs with our best wishes and sincere thanks for all he's contributed during his time here."


 

Crusaders Head Coach Scott Robertson added: "Goody is a special man and means a lot to our group.



"He's loved by players and management alike, so we're not only losing a highly-skilled coach but a great team man as well. I'm sure he'll step in at Leinster and find ways to connect with his playing group and get the best out of them, as he's done in New Zealand over a number of years. We wish Goody, Nina, Max and Quin all the best in Dublin."

 

 

The Crusaders are currently preparing for the DHL Super Rugby Pacific Final against the Blues, and the process of finding Goodman's replacement won't start until the 2022 season has concluded.