Highlanders Appoint Boris Stankovich as Forwards Coach for the 2027 Season

The Highlanders have bolstered their coaching programme with the appointment of experienced forwards coach Boris Stankovich, who will join the club on a two-year contract ahead of the 2027 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season.

The New Zealand born Stankovich arrives in Dunedin with a distinguished coaching résumé across Premiership Rugby, international programmes, and Japan Rugby League One complemented by a respected playing career that spanned more than a decade across the UK, France, and New Zealand.

Highlanders Head Coach Jamie Joseph said Stankovich’s arrival would strengthen the Club’s technical foundations.

“We’re looking forward to getting Boris on board, he has a reputation for delivering clarity, technical detail, and a calm authority to the set piece. He understands how to build a pack that works for each other, and he’s passionate about developing players. He’ll add real value to our coaching group and our forward play. ”

Playing Career Summary:

Born in New Zealand, Stankovich's rugby journey took him from Kelston Boys' High School to the professional arenas of Europe. After beginning with London Irish, he spent seven years playing in France before returning to England for a highly successful tenure with Leicester Tigers. As a dependable and hard-working loosehead prop, he built a reputation for his durability, tireless contribution around the field, and outstanding reliability in the set piece.

His playing highlights include:

• NG Dragons (2014-2016) - 37 games in the United Rugby Championship
• Leicester Tigers (2007–2014) - Made more than 130 appearances, winning three Premiership titles (2007, 2009, 2010) and establishing himself as a cornerstone of the Tigers’ forward pack.
• SC Albi (2004-2007) – 46 games winning promotion to French Top 14 in 2006.

Extensive Coaching Experience:

 Stankovich’s coaching journey has taken him across multiple elite environments:

• Coventry (2015-16) - Player/Coach
• Leicester Tigers (2017–2020) - Scrum Coach, guiding one of the Premiership’s most consistent and technically disciplined forward packs.
• Canada (2019 Rugby World Cup) - Scrum specialist during the global tournament.
• Russia (2021) - Technical coaching role focused on forward play and set‑piece systems.
• NEC Green Rockets Tokatsu (2021–2026) - Forwards/Scrum Coach in Japan Rugby League One, contributing to the club’s rebuild and player development

Stankovich expressed his excitement to join the Highlanders and contribute to the club’s evolving identity.

“I feel incredibly privileged to join the Highlanders and represent such a proud region. I’m excited to work alongside the coaches and players and help build a forward pack that reflects the toughness and spirit of the region.”

He will begin his role in Dunedin later this year, working closely with the coaching group through pre‑season and into the 2027 campaign.

Highlanders Coaching Group – 2027 Season:

• Jamie Joseph - Head Coach
• Ben Smith - Assistant Coach
• Dave Kidwell - Defence Coach
• Ryan Bambry - Attack Coach
• Boris Stankovich - Forwards/Scrum Coach

ENDS