Mooloos sign Gibbes and McLeod

Waikato Rugby Union revealed that head coach Chris Gibbes and assistant coach Scott McLeod have re-signed with the union for a further two years.

Friday’s announcement came after a successful 2010 campaign, where the Waikato team made the Final of the NPC competition.

WRU CEO Graham Bowen said the board conducted a review of the coaches’ performance over the last two seasons.

“As a result of the review, the board appointed both Chris Gibbes and Scott McLeod for a further two year period,” Bowen said.

“I believe that both Chris Gibbes and Scott McLeod have shown tremendous improvement in their coaching ability and delivery.

“The team ethic and culture over the last two years has continued to grow successfully since they have been in charge and we are looking forward to taking the next step to winning the NPC final in their next term. They will continue to work closely with club coaches in developing the Waikato-wide depth of talent.”

Gibbes said it was “extremely encouraging” to the have the support of the WRU Board and CEO for a further two seasons.

“The team have worked hard and made good progress over the last two years and we are keen to continue to further develop this,” Gibbes said.

“The boys produced some outstanding results this year and we are committed to taking the next step to build on our achievements.”

The next two years and in particular 2011 will provide opportunities for the ‘next’ level of players to wear the colours.

“We are very optimistic about the depth of players coming through within the Waikato and we will be working closely with the Waikato rugby community to unearth and develop this talent,” Gibbes added.

Assistant coach Scott McLeod commented” “I’m thrilled to have the confidence of the WRU, their board and the community to continue to grow, develop and challenge Waikato rugby as a region.”