Former All Blacks and Crusaders assistant coach Brad Mooar has returned to the Super Rugby franchise for the next two seasons.
Backs coach Mooar was sacked from his All Blacks position in 2022, along with forwards coach John Plumtree, as head coach Ian Foster struggled for consistency from his coaching and playing group, and, after a stint overseas, Mooar has returned to Christchurch.
Mooar was first at the Crusaders from 2015 to 2019 – they began their seven-year title streak in 2017 during Scott Robertson’s first year in charge.
After being let go at the All Blacks, Mooar assisted the Scotland national team and this year was employed by Argentina.
Mooar, hired by the Crusaders after Tamati Ellison went from a part-time to a full-time role with the All Blacks, will coach alongside Rob Penney, who retained his position as head coach despite the Crusaders winning only four of 14 matches and finished ninth of 12 teams this year.
“My family and I are really happy to be back in Christchurch, and I’m really excited to be at Rugby Park again. It feels like coming home,” said Mooar.
“It’s wonderful to be back in the mix with the players and staff, and I’m looking forward to connecting with the community again”.
Penney, who hasn't previously coached with Mooar, said: “Brad has some awesome credentials. He is a quality coach and a quality human being.
"He has a proven success record and is going to offer the coaching group and the organisation a wealth of experience and knowledge”.
Former Crusaders loose forward Matt Todd is another assistant coach.
The Crusaders’ first game of the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season is at home against the Hurricanes on February 14.
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