Good news for Tasman

OPINION: Confirmation that Marlborough's favourite sporting son, Leon MacDonald, will be assistant coach at the Tasman Makos this year is more good news for the fledgling team.

Like any new kid on the block, Tasman has struggled to be taken seriously since its conception in 2006. But not any longer.

MacDonald's appointment, arguably the province's worst-kept secret, enhances the Makos brand. He is regarded worldwide as a no-nonsense, brave and thoughtful footballer who is destined to become a very able coach.

The fact he has chosen to kick-start his career in the area where he learned his trade illustrates how highly he rates the input of his former first XV coach Kieran Keane, now the Makos head coach.

During their MBC days the insightful and innovative Keane had a major impact on the young MacDonald, honing his natural skills and helping him with the mental side of the game.

During his lengthy coaching career Keane, very much a student of the game, has continually sought ways to improve his coaching and gain an edge over the opposition.

I expect his association with MacDonald, who brings a wealth of big match experience and knowledge of different coaching methods to the table, to produce some outstanding results. They offer an exciting combination.

Both former All Blacks promote an attacking mindset but with a degree of caution and pragmatism – perhaps something to do with the Canterbury influence which shaped their careers.

An adherence to basics and attention to detail will also shape both men's style.

The news that MacDonald will also run the Nelson Rugby Academy adds to the general air of excitement surrounding the game in the top of the south. Who better to help the rising stars of Tasman rugby with advice, training and career choices than someone who has been a model professional for so many years?

There will be many other fringe benefits.

MacDonald's long-standing Canterbury connection will also help smoothe Tasman's relationship with their southern "big brother", a sometimes fraught connection, but one which could be so beneficial to both parties.

Also, the fact that both Makos coaches have Marlborough backgrounds, and fully understand this province's rugby psyche, will bring balance and insight to the unique rugby province that is Tasman.

If the book is closed on the 56-test All Black's playing career, and that looks like being the case, then it is Tasman's good fortune he has chosen to begin a new chapter in our region.

Peter JonesSports editor

- The Marlborough Express

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