Tana Umaga to Join All Blacks Coaching Team Under Dave Rennie
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND – – Former All Blacks captain Tana Umaga is poised to join Dave Rennie’s coaching staff, New Zealand Rugby is expected to confirm in the coming days. The appointment signals a significant shift as Rennie builds his team ahead of future competitions, and a deliberate effort to reconnect with the cultural foundations of New Zealand rugby.
Currently the head coach of Moana Pasifika, Umaga, 52, will take on an assistant coach role, bringing a wealth of experience both as a player and a leader. He captained the All Blacks in over 20 Tests from 2004 to 2005, a period marked by a clean sweep of the British & Irish Lions and a Grand Slam tour.
The move is particularly noteworthy given Rennie’s own Pasifika heritage – he is the first All Blacks head coach of Pasifika descent. Umaga himself holds the Samoan chiefly honorific title of Faʻalogo, meaning “the listener,” and was the first All Blacks captain of Samoan lineage. His presence on the coaching staff is seen as a key component in Rennie’s stated desire to tap into the legacy and cultural depth of the All Blacks.
Umaga’s coaching career has been diverse, encompassing roles with Toulon, Counties Manukau, the New Zealand Under-20s, the Blues, Samoa (as an assistant), and most recently, Moana Pasifika since the team’s inception in 2023. He is in the final season of his contract with Moana Pasifika, leaving the club to consider options for a replacement, potentially promoting from within. Tom Coventry, who previously worked alongside Rennie at the Chiefs, has been identified as a potential successor.
The connection between Umaga and Rennie extends back to their time together at Wellington in the early 2000s. This existing relationship, coupled with Rennie’s stated intentions, suggests a deliberate and strategic appointment. Umaga’s appointment is viewed as a signal of intent to build a team grounded in the traditions of the All Blacks.
The coaching staff reshuffle isn’t limited to Umaga’s arrival. Jason Ryan is likely to be the one survivor
from the previous coaching regime led by Scott Robertson, according to reports. Ryan recently participated in World Rugby’s “shape of the game” symposium, indicating his continued involvement with New Zealand Rugby.
Rennie has remained tight-lipped about his preferred assistants, but the addition of Umaga clearly demonstrates his commitment to assembling a team he trusts. Neil Barnes, known for his work in developing players at the provincial level with Taranaki, is also being considered as a potential addition to the coaching group.
Umaga’s playing career saw him feature for Wellington and Counties Manukau domestically, as well as a stint with Toulon in France. He earned 74 test caps for the All Blacks, showcasing his durability and leadership qualities. His transition to coaching has been marked by a commitment to developing players and fostering strong team cultures.
Tana Umaga at a glance:
Age: 52
All Blacks Tests: 74
Playing Provinces: Wellington/ Counties-Manukau
Overseas experience: Toulon (France)/Samoa (Assistant coach)
Coaching experience: Toulon/Counties-Manukau/NZ under-20/Blues/Samoa/Moana Pasifika
The appointment of Umaga represents more than just a coaching change. it’s a symbolic move that acknowledges the growing importance of Pasifika representation within New Zealand rugby. It’s a clear indication that Rennie intends to build a team that not only excels on the field but also reflects the diverse cultural landscape of the nation.
As Umaga prepares to transition from leading Moana Pasifika to supporting Rennie with the All Blacks, the rugby world watches with anticipation to see how his experience and leadership will shape the future of New Zealand’s national team.