Wright appointed new Kiwi Ferns coach

Author: www.photosport.nz
Timestamp: Thu 31 May 2018, 08:13 PM

Kelvin Wright has been appointed the Kiwi Ferns' new head coach ahead of the Queen’s Birthday weekend national women’s tournament in Auckland from June 2-4.

Since his coaching career began in 2011, Wright has filled several coaching roles.

The former Vodafone Junior Warriors NYC head coach has also guided the Junior Kiwis as well as being on the Kiwis' and Vodafone Warriors' coaching staff.

Wright will lead the selection panel identifying the top 30 female players in New Zealand during this weekend’s national women’s tournament.

These players will contribute to the make-up of the wider Kiwi Ferns squad to be announced after the tournament final next Monday.

NZRL coaching manager Gary Peacham said he was "excited to see a coach of Kelvin’s ability put his hand up for the top job and is confident he can successfully lead the Kiwi Ferns' programme."

While Wright boasts a wealth of rugby league experience, he said he was particularly excited to accept this new challenge coaching the three-time world champion Kiwi Ferns.

With the level of talent available in New Zealand, Wright is welcoming of the new era women’s rugby league is about to enter into and believes he can offer significant value to the team.

"I’ll bring fresh ideas and experience which I’ve gained through a number of different campaigns," he said.

"On a technical level, I’ll be challenging the players to improve in all areas to take our game to the next level. We are very lucky to have a tremendous amount of Kiwi talent across New Zealand and Australia competing for spots in the squad."

As a part of the trans-Tasman triple-header taking place in Auckland on October 13, the Kiwi Ferns will go head-to-head with the Jillaroos ahead of the Kiwis v Kangaroos clash, in their first match since the 2017 Rugby League World Cup final in Brisbane.

For Wright, the road to the October match-up starts this weekend when six teams including last year’s champions the Counties Manukau Stingrays, Akarana Falcons, Wai-Coa-Bay Stallions, Canterbury, Wellington Orcas and the Auckland Vulcans descend on Cornwall Park.

"I’m sure we’ll see quality games played at a tremendous pace. I’ll be looking for speed, skill and players who compete on every play with a strong desire to win," said Wright.

Following the tournament, Wright will support the NZRL in appointing the remainder of the Kiwi Ferns management team.

KELVIN WRIGHT