Highlanders name Joseph as head coach

The Highlanders have today announced changes to the coaching team for the 2025 season. Jamie Joseph the current Head of Rugby has been offered and accepted the role of Head Coach. 

We are also pleased to confirm that Clarke Dermody will remain with the Highlanders as Assistant Coach.

Dermody is proud of what the team has achieved this year and understands the change. 

“It’s a change that Jamie discussed with me and while I am very proud of what we achieved this season, I accept the view that it will be of benefit to the club to have his coaching influence on the team next year. From that perspective I believe it’s a positive step and  I’m happy to support the move in the best interests of the club.” 

Dermody is confident the team can develop further in 2025.

“I know there is plenty of growth left in this team. They are all still mostly young and relatively inexperienced players at Super Rugby level. We all learned a lot this year and the benefits of that experience will pay dividends for us next year. Personally, I am looking forward to the opportunity to work with Jamie in unleashing the potential within the team next season”.

On his appointment Joseph commented, “I’m delighted to be back coaching and leading the Highlanders again. I am keen to get stuck in with Clarke and the rest of my coaching team next season. My goal is to take this team as far as it can go and to build a record of success that we can all be proud of.”

Highlanders Chairman, Peter Kean, said the changes announced today are another positive step forward for the Highlanders.

“We believe these changes will take advantage of the unique skill sets that both Jamie and Clarke possess. Jamie has a proven track record as a Coach at international level and that experience and knowledge will be hugely beneficial to the Highlanders. As a board we are delighted Clarke will remain with the Highlanders and he will have an enormous contribution to make as Jamie’s assistant.”