Bath's Kiwi heads for the exit door

NEWS: Todd Blackadder announced that he will leave Bath at the end of the season.

The Director of Rugby has been granted early release from his one-year contract extension in order to allow him to join Toshiba in Japan as head coach.

“It’s been an honour and a privilege to lead the Blue, Black and White for the past three years and I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved. It might not be silverware but together we have built strong foundations and I leave knowing that the best is absolutely yet to come.”

“Bath is a very special Club. I’d like to thank everyone, especially the players and all of the staff. I also want to thank our supporters, even in the wind, rain and biting cold they are all at the Rec cheering us on.

“Thank you. Our sights remain set on a top-four finish and we are all intent on making this season our best one yet,” commented Blackadder following the announcement of his departure.

Tarquin McDonald, Bath’s Chief Executive thanked Blackadder for his unwavering commitment in his statement: ”Todd and I have been open and consistent with our conversations regarding the progression and future of the rugby department.

“We are confident that the Club can move forward and deliver on our long-term plan with solid foundations and a system that is ready to accommodate such change. I am pleased that we have been able to support Todd’s decision knowing it is right for him and his family.

“I have said before that it is a mark of Todd’s special and unique character, rare among coaches, that we have been able to bring about such positive change to the culture of our Club whilst he has been at the helm.

“Todd leaves us a stronger Club than the one he joined three years ago. He has been a pleasure to work with and I would like to thank him not only for his contribution of what has gone by but also for what is yet to come. I wish him every success for the future.”

Todd will depart Bath following the final game of the season.

The Club will confirm details of its coaching structure in the coming weeks.