Barry Stevens has been reappointed for another year as North Otago coach.
Stevens and the North Otago Rugby Football Union confirmed a deal this week to keep him in the role in 2016.
The Dunedin-based former Valley and Old Golds halfback replaced Mike Mullins this season.
Under Stevens, a young North Otago side has a record of four wins and three losses with one game, against Mid Canterbury tomorrow, remaining in the Heartland Championship.
Two of those losses - to Wanganui and South Canterbury - were heavy, but it is widely felt that Stevens has made good strides with the team and built a positive squad environment.
''The union is delighted to retain Barry's services,'' NORFU chairman Warren Prescott said.
''He has done a terrific job rebuilding our Heartland and development sides, and this year has been very much about consolidating for the future.
''Barry has developed an excellent team culture and we are very confident that the results next season will reflect his long-term plans and coaching strategies.''
Prescott said Stevens worked well with the clubs and had intimated he would spend more time consulting with local coaches and players next season.
