NSW have re-signed coach Daryl Gibson to a one-year contract extension and appointed club great Chris Whittaker as their backs coach.
Former Wallabies halfback Whittaker replaces backs and attack coach Chris Malone, who is taking up a venture outside rugby following the end of his three-year contract.
New Zealander and former All Blacks centre Gibson has coached the Tahs for the last three seasons.
They missed out on the finals in the first two years of his tenure but he oversaw a spectacular resurgence in 2018.
After finishing 16th on the overall ladder in 2017, NSW won the Australian conference and made it to the semi-finals, in the process scoring over 600 points for the first time in their Super Rugby history.
“I am really proud of how this team has developed and improved over the past 12 months to make the final four,” Gibson said.
“While our goal was to bring the Super Rugby trophy home, we can hold our heads high and reflect on a season in which we made massive inroads both on and off the field.
“The job is not done yet but we are excited about what’s to come.”
Simon Cron has been retained as forwards and contact skills coach.
Gibson will also have the attack portfolio and is likely to share the defence role with Whittaker, who is expected to return to Australia later this month.
One of the Waratahs’ favourite sons, former NSW captain Whittaker amassed over 100 appearances for his home state in addition to winning 31 Test caps.
He has spent two years as co-head of French club Montauban and had stints with Stade Francais and Irish club side Leinster.
“The knowledge and experience you gain overseas is great, but it is time for me to come home and contribute to the game and a state that has given so much to me and my family throughout my career,” Whittaker said.
“Rugby in Australia is improving and I couldn’t pass on the chance to help further develop and grow the potential we have here.”
keith hurst
Roar Pro
Can the Waratahs keep it up next year. Their last year's resurgence was completely unexpected. Now all we need is decent crowds and good attacking football. Keith Hurst
Kane
Guest
I wonder what the odds were on him getting a renewal this time last year. It's been a surprising change of fortune for him.
Worlds Biggest
Guest
Good on ya Nobby Malone, good luck in your pursuits outside of Rugby ! Welcome Whits !
Lara
Guest
Gibson has developed as a coach n been to the depths n back, so he knows the pressure. Europe would be an ideal next step n then back to NZ for a SR head coach job , maybe the Blues. Real level headed sort of guy . Whitaker coming back is a good safety net for the Tahs ,when Gibson leaves.
jeznez
Roar Guru
Interesting, he's only just settled in, made the team his own and he's already looking at the exit. Shame, looks like he's just started to come good. Was keen to see how he would transition the team as the older stars begin their exits post RWC
Paul D
Roar Rookie
Found the article. And from it; "The NSW mentor had said previously that he was keen to stay on for one more season and then possibly step away but the Waratahs wanted a longer commitment from him." from https://www.rugby.com.au/news/2018/07/30/super-rugby-waratahs-gibson-contract
Paul D
Roar Rookie
"Suprised Gibson only got a one year deal " He was only wanting a 1 year deal from last interview I read. NSWRU was pushing for longer and they agreed it seems on a second year option.
jeznez
Roar Guru
No mention of Steve Tandy? Gibson said they were a coach short this year and that Tandy coming in on a voluntary basis had been massive. Can't imagine the guy can afford to do another year for free so has he been given a job or been replaced? Do we know where Malone is off to? Is a shame he is leaving as the attack was strong. Suprised Gibson only got a one year deal - I thought making the semi's would have been worth at least 2-3. Looks like next year may be an all or nothing year for him and a number of senior players who will likely have it as their last season in sky blue. Recruitment in the playing squad is going to be key.
Paul D
Roar Rookie
I must admit, my first thought with ex-Tah Whitaker coming back was "jobs for the boys". But after seeing that in his time as co-coach for Montauban, they went from 10th and 12th after being promoted to 3rd and 2nd the last 2 years when Whitaker was there. So that makes me feel a little better that there is some merit to his appointment.
jameswm
Roar Guru
Cron kept, great news. How long is his contract, anyone know? I've heard very positive things about him from Norths coaches too. And I think Gibbo is good with decent support and the backing to do it his way.