Foster sticks with the NZRU
September 19 2008
Chiefs coach Ian Foster has re-signed with the New Zealand Rugby Union and extended his contract until 2010.
Apart from being good news for the Chiefs, the announcement ends speculation that Foster might take up the role as Ospreys Head Coach in Wales.
Foster had spent three weeks with the Welsh region, as part of a coaching exchange scheme, raising speculation over his future. However he has, as the Ospreys said, not been offered a job and returns to New Zealand.
Foster has been Chiefs coach since 2004 and in his first year, he coached the team to the semi-finals of the Super 14.
He was also Co-Coach of the Junior All Blacks from 2005-2007, during which time the team won a two-Test Series against Australia A in Australia, the inaugural IRB Pacific Five Nations tournament and the expanded Pacific Nations Cup last year.
"Ian is one of our leading coaches and highly regarded in New Zealand and internationally," said NZRU General Manager of Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen.
"It is fantastic news for the Chiefs and rugby in New Zealand that Ian is committed to remaining in New Zealand and further contributing to the game here."
Chiefs CEO Gary Dawson conveyed similar sentiments.
"Ian's re-appointment is extremely positive for the Chiefs," he said.
"It gives our franchise continuity and stability as we head into the final two years of the current SANZAR contract. He is an experienced coach and is highly regarded in our franchise and within New Zealand rugby circles."