Blair Baxter takes exciting next step in his coaching journey

Farah Palmer Cup Head Coach Blair Baxter has taken the next step in his coaching career, accepting an exciting opportunity with the China Women’s 7’s side as Assistant Coach, as they seek qualification for the 2024 Olympics.

It allows Baxter, who has been a Game Developer for Coaching over the last six years with Canterbury Rugby, the opportunity to return to on grass coaching, with the role allowing him to work on the technical and tactical aspects he loves about coaching Rugby.

“Definitely some nerves heading into this opportunity, however, with that comes growth.” said Baxter.

“There was a chance here to be a full time coach, get my hands dirty, and work on the techincal and tactical aspects that’s going to help me be a better coach long term.”

“My main motivation is a chance to grow. It’s so far removed from what I know, the language barrier, and a completely different culture will force me to become a better coach.”

Baxter has coached the Canterbury FPC side for the last three years, leading the team to three home finals and two premiership titles in his time, and most recently, was Matatū Head Coach for their Super Rugby Aupiki success, with the team securing a last minute victory over Chiefs Manawa last weekend.

“I was lucky to get the opportunity with FPC three years ago.” Baxter said, “It’s provided me exponential growth as a person and coach,”

“Women’s Rugby is a fantastic area of our game to be involved in, everyone is there for the right reasons and wants the best, and I’ve been lucky to work with amazing individuals who consistently drive to be the best they can be."

The shift to a full time role with China presents the next step in a coaching pathway that saw Baxter start out at Belfast, before seven years coaching with Sydenham Colts and Premiers, alongside representative coaching with the Cantabrians, Canterbury B’s, Metro and U19’s before coaching FPC.

"We take pride in offering opportunities to our Canterbury rugby community, and this is something that Blair has grabbed with both hands." said Canterbury Rugby CEO Tony Smail. "It truly represents Canterbury rugby’s vision of pathways from community to high performance. We are delighted for him.”

The move will be bittersweet for Baxter, who will move on from the Community game he loves.

“Working with the incredible volunteers who are integral to our game is something that I love and am passionate about.” said Baxter

“It’s been great to work in such a rewarding and cool environment, and I can’t wait to get into this new role with Sevens.”

The vacant FPC Head Coaching role will be addressed in the coming weeks.