Meet the coaches
Andrew Goodman is the TRU skills coach and an assistant coach with the Makos. In his second year on the coaching staff, Goody is a local Mako legend (# 33) having played 55 games, been captain and scored 291 points.
What is your core role in the Makos coaching set up?
My core role with the Makos is working with the backs on set piece attack and defence and general skill development. During the club season, I run group and individual skill development sessions for the Crusaders academy, Makos Wider training group, senior club and first XV teams.
What most excites you about this Mitre 10 Cup season?
The week to week challenge of this very competitive competition! There is a lot of hard work that goes in every week by everyone involved but we have a great time doing it.
What is your background prior to joining TRU?
I was lucky to be involved in 7 seasons as a player with the Makos alongside a couple of overseas stints in Japan and Ireland, playing for Honda, Toyota and Leinster. During my time with the Makos, Nelson College were very kind in accommodating my rugby commitments with work as a Physical Education teacher.
Tell us a bit about your personal life?
I am 2 years married to my wife Nina and we just had our first child six weeks ago, a boy named Max, who has been keeping us very busy! We’re lucky to have a lot of family here in Nelson who have been helping out.
I love travelling and, having lived in Japan and Ireland, have been lucky enough to do a fair bit over the last few years. Here in Nelson I enjoy getting out on the water on the paddle board or kayak and getting up the hills. I love a good feed also!
Which rugby coaches, past and present, have most influenced your own approach to coaching and the game?
My dad John would be the coach that has influenced me the most as a player and now as a coach. He was a hard worker, immaculate planner and just had an eye for the game that I always admired. I have been lucky enough to be coached by many great coaches including Peter Grigg, Todd Blackadder, Kieran Keane, Leon MacDonald and Joe Schmidt, all of whom I have learnt a great deal from.
