All Blacks: Leon MacDonald’s stand-in takes up permanent position and leaves Crusaders
All Blacks assistant coach Tamati Ellison during a training session.
New Zealand Rugby have announced that All Blacks assistant coach Tamati Ellison has been appointed to their backroom staff on a permanent basis.
Ellison initially joined All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson’s coaching team on an interim basis to work on contact skills but he has also taken on additional responsibilities.
The 41-year-old and defence coach Scott Hansen shared the additional responsibilities after the All Blacks‘ attack coach Leon MacDonald stepped down from his position in August following “philosophical rugby differences” with Robertson.
Ellison said he is looking forward to taking up a full-time position with the All Blacks but that also means that his stint with the Crusaders will come to an end.
An experienced coach
He served as the Christchurch-based outfit’s defence coach from 2021 to 2023 before leading the multiple Super Rugby champions’ attack strategy during the 2024 season.
“I’m very honoured and excited to step into the All Blacks environment full time,” said Ellison. “As a player it’s the pinnacle of your playing career to wear the black jersey, and it’s no different as a coach.
“I have loved my time at the Crusaders. The high standards expected day to day and the care to support you in achieving those high standards are two things that will stay with me forever. Mā pango mā whero.”
Crusaders chief executive Colin Mansbridge said his organisation was proud of Ellison’s appointment.
“He’s had a huge impact over the last couple of years with us and we thoroughly appreciate his contribution,” Mansbridge said.
“One of the core goals of the Crusaders as an organisation and a rugby club is growing our people whether that be players, coaches or staff.”
Meanwhile, Crusaders head coach Rob Penney said news of Ellison’s All Blacks appointment was not surprising.
Crusaders ‘completely unsurprised’ by Ellison’s appointment
“We’re completely unsurprised the All Blacks have seen the value in him assuming a full time role,” said Penney. “To have someone who can coach both sides of the ball at an elite level is rare.
“On behalf of the coaching and playing group, we wish you all the best with the black jersey.”
NZR general manager professional rugby and performance Chris Lendrum said it is “great to see Tamati’s progression through the New Zealand Rugby coaching pathway as he’s developed his craft with the Wellington Lions in the Bunnings Warehouse NPC, then with the Crusaders in DHL Super Rugby Pacific.
“The Crusaders can be proud of their ability to develop people who are subsequently promoted to higher honours in our system, whether they be players, coaches or management.”
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