Ex-Otago player NZ coach

Darren Smith.
Darren Smith.
Former New Zealand international and Otago representative Darren Smith has been named coach of the Black Sticks men.

Smith, who played 212 tests for New Zealand from 1995 to 2006, takes over the top role following the departure of Colin Batch in December.Smith was assistant coach of the Black Sticks from 2007 to 2012 before leading the Ireland women’s programme as head coach from 2012 to 2015.

"I’m absolutely thrilled to be appointed head coach of the Vantage Black Sticks men. It’s been something I’ve thought about for 20-odd years and a lot of my life choices have been moulded towards one day being in this role,’’ Smith said.

"The Blacks Sticks programme is something I’m hugely passionate about and I think it’s in great shape with plenty of potential to do even better.

"Hockey is on a high all around the world at the moment and to have both our Black Sticks teams ranked in the world’s top eight is a huge achievement.

"I’m really looking forward to getting in and spending time with the players, getting a depth of knowledge within the programme and getting started on the pitch."

Smith grew up in Dunedin and honed his fledgling hockey skills at King’s High School under the tutelage of leading Dunedin coach Dave Ross.

"Darren was an outstanding player. I had him from third form right the way through to year 13," Ross said.

"He played 200-plus tests for New Zealand and has captained New Zealand before, so his playing record speaks for itself. Also he is an outstanding coach.

"They would have had a number of applicants. Obviously, it is a hugely sought-after job. The Black Sticks are a very good side ... so there would have been quite a bit of interest from within New Zealand and from offshore."

Smith begins his role next week as he transitions into another big year for the programme.

The Black Sticks men’s biggest focus this year is the World League Semifinal in Johannesburg on July 9-23, which serves as a dual qualification event for the World League Final as well as the 2018 World Cup. 

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