The nib Blues will have some familiar faces at the helm for the 2024 Sky Super Rugby Aupiki season, with the full contingent of last season’s coaching lineup back in blue.

Head Coach Willie Walker is joined by Linda Itunu, Carlos Spencer and Census Johnston as the coaching team look to build from last season.

Walker, who most recently coached the Auckland Women’s team to victory in the Farah Palmer Cup said he was impressed and inspired by the commitment of the team last season and wants to continue building a strong culture at the nib Blues.

“We didn’t quite get the results we wanted last season, but I took heart from what I saw both on and off the field – we’ve got something to work with for sure,” said Walker.

 “It’s great to have Linda, Carlos and Census back with us for another season. It gives us a level of consistency with familiar voices and processes which will help us to hit the ground running when we come together in February.”

Walker was also happy to see a commitment to a longer pre-season and more games for the 2024 Sky Super Rugby Aupiki competition.

“A longer pre-season allows us to work harder and ultimately provide a more skilful, exciting and polished product for our fans. I appreciate the competition needs to grow at a sustainable rate and I hope it will continue trending in the right direction.”

Blues Head of Performance Development, Chad Shepherd, echoed Walker’s sentiment around building from last season.

“This coaching group will benefit from a year together, coupled with the fact they’ll have a large number of returning players to work with and develop,” said Shepherd.

“Willie, Linda, Carlos and Census’ personalities and skill sets complement each other and their values align with those of the club, understanding the importance of people, connections and excellence.”

“Sport is very much about relationships and we feel this group of coaches have the relationships in place to push our nib Blues wahine forward in 2024,” said Shepherd.

The full nib Blues squad will be named in the coming weeks with pre-season starting on February 1.