Blues Assistant Coach, Craig McGrath, has been named as the Auckland NPC Head Coach for the 2023 season.

McGrath worked as Alama Ieremia’s assistant at Auckland since 2019 after building his coaching experience at club level, then professional rugby teams overseas. 

His role as coach for Auckland NPC will complement his existing Blues Assistant Coach position with us for the upcoming 2023 Super Rugby Pacific campaign.

“I’ve enjoyed being back home and working with a good group of coaches and players. Alama created a great culture through his time as Head Coach, and I’m looking forward to building on that,” said McGrath.

Ieremia said McGrath is in a great position to drive the Auckland NPC team forward next season.

“Craig has been within the Auckland coaching team for three seasons and has developed into a great leader for this team. I do not doubt that he will be able to build a solid platform for these men to perform from,” said Ieremia. 

*Thanks to Auckland Rugby for above quotes