There has been a change to the personnel involved with the Junior Kiwis side, with David Kidwell forced to step down frm the side due to personal reasons, which means that John Ackland will now coach the side.
“I’ve enjoyed my time and seeing the talent coming through,” said Kidwell, “and I wish John good luck.”
Whilst the New Zealand Rugby League CEO Jim Doyle knows knows that the situation of having the coach withdraw at this stage is not ideal, he has full confidence in Ackland and his ability.
“John has been involved in our system, he has great knowledge of the game and under 20 players especially, and he has coached the best Toyota Cup team in two of the last three years. We’re very pleased to have someone of his caliber step into the position.”
Ackland is no stranger to the Junior Kiwis, or to being a coach – with Ackland serving as a selector for the Junior Kiwis for the past 2 years, as well as being a part of the Warriors coaching staff as an Assistant, all whilst coaching the Junior Warriors for the last three years.
“It’s a real privilege to coach the national side,” says Ackland,
“It’ll be a strong team.”