Rugby Southland is pleased to announce the appointment of Matt Saunders as Director of Rugby, a new role for the union. Saunders is a familiar face in Southland, having played 38 games for the Southland Stags from 2008 to 2012, including two famous Ranfurly Shield wins. Saunders has a rich history in rugby, starting his first-class career with North Otago at the young age of 17, and later playing for the Otago Rugby Union and the Highlanders.
With a successful career that saw him play in the Super Rugby and make appearances against the British & Irish Lions, Saunders brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to Rugby Southland. He previously worked with the organization in a community role in 2012 while still playing, before moving on to become the academy manager and eventually leaving to run his own business. He coached Pirates Old Boys and the Southland Development team during his time with the union.
The appointment of Saunders as Director of Rugby marks a new chapter for Rugby Southland and signals their commitment to elevating the level of rugby and coaching in the region. Saunders’ experience, expertise and passion for the game and region make him the ideal candidate for the role, and the organization is thrilled to welcome him back.
“We are very excited to have Matt join our team as Director of Rugby,” said General Manager Steve Mitchell. “His extensive knowledge and passion for the game will be a great asset to the organization and the rugby community in Southland. We look forward to working with him to continue to grow and develop the game in our region.”
Mitchell added the panel were also impressed with the number of local coaches putting their names forward.
“We were also really pleased with the calibre of the other local applicants interviewed and hope we can utilise their strengths to support other key areas that Rugby Southland are looking to develop in the next few years”.
Rugby Southland General Manager alongside Chairman Murray Brown, Board Director Ashley Light and former Southland coach Peter Skelt led the recruitment process. The panel was impressed with Matt Saunders’ application and believes he will grow in the role. They emphasized the belief in local representation for local people and believe Saunders is a great fit for their goal of growing all levels of rugby and coaching in Southland, from juniors to representative men’s and women’s grades including the Stags. Saunders will work with the SBS Bank Southland Stags coaches for 2023, James Wilson, David Hall, and Daryl Thompson.