Keas coach steps down

After eight years at the helm Andrew Auimatagi has stepped down as coach of the Linwood Keas.

The Keas have been the dominant force in the premier rugby league competition in recent years.

Auimatagi will continue to coach the Canterbury Bulls, which were defeated by Akarana in the national premiership final over the weekend.

The former Keas and Bulls player admits he considered stepping down 12 months ago, but was convinced to come back for another campaign by senior players. He says stepping down will allow him to seek other national and representative level positions.

“It’s time to have crack at some of those other jobs now. Stepping away from club footy frees up a bit of time,” he said.

This week Auimatagi was named the New Zealand Residents coach for their upcoming match against England Community Lions on November 1 in Auckland.