Black Ferns coach Glenn Moore. Photo: Marc WeakleyAshburton-based rugby coach Glenn Moore is going fulltime.

The former Highlanders and Mid Canterbury Heartland coach has been appointed the fulltime coach of the New Zealand women’s rugby team, the Black Ferns, through to the Rugby World Cup in 2021.

Moore has been at the helm of the successful women’s side since 2015 during which time he has successfully won the World Cup – losing just three matches during his tenure.

Following the announcement yesterday Moore said in a statement from New Zealand Rugby, that the role would allow him to work even closer with players in their development.

“It means I can help players improve their training and skills by providing feedback throughout the year. We’ll be able to prepare in a much more consistent way and take things a step up,” he said.

The 2021 World Cup will be a special occasion with the entire tournament to be played on our shores.

“To play in a world cup at home is special. We know as current world champions we have a target on our back and it’s an exciting time to be involved,” he said.

“Over the past couple of years there’s been massive growth in the top end of the women’s game. Our talent pool is deeper than it’s ever been, so players are working hard to secure a black jersey and have a desire to get better. As a coach that’s exactly what you want.”

New Zealand Rugby’s head of women’s rugby, Cate Sexton, said that Moore’s role would also now include a strong element of talent identification.

All Provincial Unions now deliver Black Ferns high performance programmes alongside their Mitre 10 Cup programmes ensuring contracted Black Ferns and wider squad members have full access to trainers and facilities, specialist skill development, strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, nutrition advice and player development management.

The general manager of Smallbones, Moore also has a strong involvement with the Mid Canterbury Rugby Union.

© The Ashburton Guardian - 19 September 2019