Ryan joins Crusaders coaching team

Ryan will work alongside Scott Robertson as head coach, Brad Mooar as the assistant coach and Leon MacDonald as assistant coach backs.

Ryan said he was thrilled to be offered the role and cannot wait to get his teeth into it.

"This is a huge opportunity for me and it is still sinking in, to be honest," Ryan said.

"I know that it is a big step up to Super Rugby but I am determined to give it everything and make a strong contribution to the well-respected legacy of the Crusaders.

"Making the step up with Scott [Robertson] definitely makes it easier. We know each other well as coaches and we already know that we work well together, which should help to make the transition more seamless for everyone. I can’t wait to get started."

Ryan's contract begins at the end of the National Provincial Championship season and is for three years.

Crusaders CEO Hamish Riach said Ryan brings a great skill set to the team: "We are really pleased that Jason has signed up with the Crusaders through to 2019." 

"He has been doing excellent work with the forwards in the Canterbury team for the last five years, as well as for the Black Ferns and New Zealand Under-20 teams, so we are sure that he will make a valuable contribution to the Crusaders as well."

Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson added to Ryan's appointment: "I have worked with him at both Canterbury and NZ Umder-20s level and I admire and respect him as a coach.

"He is well-known in New Zealand rugby circles as an expert on scrums and it is a prized skillset that he will bring to the group."