Former Vodafone Warriors Justin Morgan and Willie Poching have been appointed assistant coaches for the Kiwis’ upcoming trans-Tasman Test against the Kangaroos in Perth and the following Four Nations tournament in the United Kingdom.
Vodafone Warrior #88 Morgan has landed the role after being an assistant coach at Mount Smart Stadium this year while foundation Auckland Warrior Poching (#20) has had a long playing and coaching career in England.
Morgan previously had assistant coach positions with the Melbourne Storm in 2014-2015 and the Canberra Raiders in 2012-2013 following a long stint as head coach with Hull Kingston Rovers in England. He and new Kiwi head coach David Kidwell were team-mates at Parramatta in 1999.
“Justin brings great experience holding a head coaching position in Super League and being involved with the Storm and Warriors,” said Kidwell.
Former Kiwi and Samoan international started his first-grade career with the Auckland Warriors in 1995 and had terms with North Queensland, the Hunter Mariners and St George before playing a total of more than 200 games for Wakefield and Leeds in England. He has been in coaching roles since ending his playing career currently with Hull Kingston Rovers.
“Willie has so much experience as an assistant coach in the Super League and as a former Kiwi and captain of Samoa he knows what international footy is all about,” said Kidwell.
“Both of these guys are great people who will complement my coaching style.”
The full Kiwi touring squad will be named after the NRL grand final.
