Highlanders Appoint Scott Eade as U20s Coach

The Highlanders are proud to announce the appointment of Scott Eade as the new Highlanders U20 Coach. With an extensive background in rugby coaching, player development, and a deep-rooted passion for fostering local talent, Eade is set to lead the Highlanders U20 team into an exciting new phase of growth and success. 

A former player with Southland, Otago, and the Highlanders, Scott’s playing experience coupled with his dedicated coaching journey, make him an ideal candidate to lead the U20 program. His recent coaching stints include his role as Rugby Southland Academy & Pathways Manager and his involvement with several regional teams, including the Southland U19 and Touch Southland U18 mixed teams. 

Eade brings a wealth of experience in strategic game planning, particularly in attack and backs play, as well as a reputation for developing cohesive team dynamics and fostering a strong sense of unity.

"I am excited to be taking on the role of U20 Coach and am truly passionate about helping develop the next generation of rugby talent from our region," Eade said. "Having grown up playing in the region, I understand the importance of supporting our young players both on and off the field. It’s a privilege to be able to contribute to their growth and development in a meaningful way.”

Highlander’s General Manager - Rugby, Greg O’Brien, expressed confidence in Eade’s ability to lead the U20 team:
“His understanding of our player pathways, alongside his coaching expertise, makes him an ideal fit to guide the Highlanders U20 team in 2025”.

Eade will be joined by Assistant Coaches Ash Barron (Backs), Danya Cunningham (Forwards) and Marty McKenzie (Attack). The management team is Hugh Tait    (Team Manager), Marik Boukehil (Strength and Conditioning Coach), Isikeli Vite (Analyst), and Emily Oldham (Physiotherapist)

The team will play two warm up games against an Otago/Southland selection in Dunedin on 1^st March and against the Crusaders in Timaru on 8^th March before heading away to the National Under 20 Tournament in Taupō where they will player three games on 15^th, 18^th and 22^nd of March.

Left to Right: U20s Coaching Team - Ash Barron, Danya Cunningham, Scott Eade and Marty McKenzie. 

ENDS