Anscombe new Auckland coach

Monday 10th November 2008

Auckland have assigned Mark Anscombe as their new Head Coach for next year's Air New Zealand Cup.

After three years coaching Northland, Anscombe is now looking forward to a new challenge and returning to Auckland where he has spent a significant amount of time in his rugby career.

"Having previously coached the Auckland Colts plus the development teams for both Auckland and the Blues, I'm looking forward to returning to the fold again on the back of three great years with Northland," said Anscombe.

Auckland Rugby Union CEO Andy Dalton says Anscombe's coaching experience at provincial and national level provides Auckland with a seasoned coach who knows what it takes to get the best out of players and an in-depth understanding of the game.

"Mark achieved some excellent success with Northland, he is well-respected within the rugby community and I believe is the right fit for Auckland," said Dalton.

"We felt it important to secure a head coach who has the expertise to meet the high standards set for Auckland rugby, while having the ability to evolve with the many changes facing the modern game."

Anscombe has signed a two-year contract beginning on December 1, when he will look to secure his management team and assistant coach.

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Gallery - 2008 in pictures

The Welsh Grand Slam: Coming just 6 months after their removal from the World Cup by Fiji, Wales silenced their critics by being crowned Six Nations champs Guinness Premieship Final: Lawrence Dallalgio brought the curtain down on a glittering career helping his side to a 26-16 victory over Leicester. Heineken Cup Final: Munster claimed their second European crown with a win over Toulouse