Broomhall and Tauamiti to join successful FPC Coaching set-up

Former Canterbury and Black Fern player Stephanie Broomhall (nee Mortimer) has joined the Canterbury Farah Palmer Cup coaching group for 2022, as well as long term Canterbury community coach Sid Tauamiti.

The pair join head coach Blair Baxter and Assistant Coach Tony Christie following the promotion of Whitney Hansen to the Black Ferns and Melissa Ruscoe, who has stood down following 5 years of excellent service. 

“It’s really pleasing to have such high calibre coaches join our group and keep us all growing and moving forward," said Baxter. “It’ll be great to have their influence on and off the field.”

“Steph has been working in the teenage space for a number of years now and is looking forward to influencing the way we play. She has great knowledge of the outside backs and carries great mana from her time in both Canterbury and the Black Ferns.”

“Sid knows the game, he’s really tactical and technical, but he’s got great knowledge on both sides of the ball. He’s a really caring type of guy and will also help us as coaches to drive an inclusive environment.”

“While it’s unfortunate that we won’t have Melissa as involved in our FPC programme as much as we have over the past few years, she’s always there if we need her, and hopefully she’ll be involved with our development programme.”

Broomhall, who was part of the 2006 World Cup winning Black Ferns side and has been coaching community rugby for the past 11 years will assist with the backs as well as some position specific detail. “It is a privilege to join the campaign and be part of this environment again,” said Broomhall.

“It is evident that there has been a huge amount of progress in the women's space since I played at this level and it's exciting to see the emphasis on culture and empowerment. I have a real passion for empowerment, self-expression and personal growth at any level.”

“I'm looking forward to getting to know the team, the learning I will gain from being part of this campaign, and contributing to this environment where possible.”

Tauamiti, on the other hand, who’s coached Sydenham, University, Canterbury B and lately St Andrews College, will add his expertise to the pack, which now boasts seven current and former Black Ferns. “Blair and I have worked together before with the Canterbury B men’s side, I really enjoyed coaching with him previously. I’m excited to coach in the female space. It’s a new challenge for me, but one I’m really excited about.”

“It’s a really fun environment, one that reminds me of the love I have for the game and why, so I’m really grateful for the opportunity.”

New Brighton’s Donna Gardiner has also taken the reins as Manager for the 2022 campaign, alongside regular analysts Grace Lange and Stephlin Hanekam, physio Jen Croker and trainer Todd Andrews. 

The Canterbury FPC and Canterbury Development sides will be named next week following the Canstaff Premier Women’s Finals.