Canterbury head coach set to make Japanese switch

Canterbury Mitre 10 Cup Head Coach Joe Maddock has announced the 2019 season will be his last in charge of the provincial side, having been appointed as an assistant coach at the Toshiba club in Japan.

Maddock will join former Crusaders Head Coach Todd Blackadder, who has taken on the Head Coach role for the Japanese Top League side. 

“I’ve been involved with Canterbury and Crusaders rugby for a long time, so the opportunity to challenge myself as a coach by stepping into a completely different environment in Japan, was a big part of my decision. At the same time, the chance to reconnect with Todd and join a big Japanese Top League side like Toshiba, is really exciting,” Maddock said.

“On a personal note, my wife Mariah and I have three daughters who are all at an age where they can really embrace the experience over in Japan, so we’re looking forward to taking on this new challenge as a family and the time is right for us to do that. 

“For now, my focus is building towards the 2019 season with this Canterbury team and really enjoying the time I have left in New Zealand with an organisation I am extremely passionate about. Christchurch is home and I’d like to think this is not the end of my time here at Rugby Park, but an opportunity to continue to grow and evolve as a coach.”

Canterbury Rugby CEO Tony Smail said: “Joe has been part of the Canterbury rugby family for most of his life, having played for the Hornby Juniors, West Melton and Prebbleton, and working his way up to provincial and Super Rugby. 
 

“We’re extremely proud of all he has contributed to the red and black jersey, and we’re fortunate to have his expertise in our coaching group. While he’ll certainly be missed come the end of the 2019 season, Joe, Mariah and family will depart with our sincere thanks and very best wishes for their next adventure in Japan,” Mr Smail said. 
 

Prior to starting as Canterbury Assistant Coach, Maddock worked as an Assistant Coach with the Canterbury under-19 and Crusader Knights teams, and was the Head Coach of the Prebbleton club side. He also coached the Barbarians in 2017 when they played the British & Irish Lions. 

A former outside back who began his professional rugby career with Canterbury in 2001, Maddock debuted for the Crusaders and New Zealand Maori the following year, before departing to play for English club Bath in 2004. He also played for Saracens and Italian club Treviso Rugby.

Maddock is in his second season as Head Coach of the Canterbury Mitre 10 Cup side, having guided the team to the 2018 Premiership Final, and is the current Assistant Coach of the Maori All Blacks.