Chris Binns and Bevan Thompson named Mako FPC Coaches

Chris Binns and Bevan Thompson named Mako FPC Coaches

The Tasman Rugby Union (TRU) is pleased to announce the coaches for the 2019 Farah Palmer Cup (FPC) campaign will be Chris Binns as head coach with Bevan Thompson as his assistant.

Head coach Chris Binns has an extensive coaching resume highlighted by positions for the TRU as coach of the Tasman Under 19’s team for three years, 2014-2016, and with the Tasman Women Sevens that won the Bowl Final at Nationals in December 2018.

Now in his sixth season as coach of Kahurangi in Nelson Bays Division One, Chris cut his teeth for seven years prior to that at Riwaka club in Division 2.

He holds World Rugby Level 3 coaching certification.

Bevan Thompson has been involved with rugby for 30 years, most recently with Riwaka, Motueka High School and last year with the Tasman Women Sevens.

A Nelson Bays Touch coach, Bevan has strengths in group and individual skills development and helping players understand their core roles and responsibilities in a team game.

George Vance, TRU’s female rugby manager, says “I’m excited about the skill and experience that Chris and Bevan bring to their roles. It’s pleasing to see passionate, capable coaches coming through local coaching pathways, particularly within women’s rugby.”

TRU CEO Tony Lewis added “Wherever Chris has coached he has got positive results on and off the pitch and we’re excited to have he and Bevan on board. Chris is big on planning, clear communication and collaboration. As a head coach we believe that Chris has a good handle on the direction we want to take female rugby in the region and the values we pride ourselves on.”

The FPC management team also includes Koren Grason (manager), Nick Marquet (strength and conditioning coach) and Hazel Davidsen (physiotherapist).

Contacts:

George Vance; 027 2911993

Tony Lewis; 021 515448

Chris Binns; 027 2067263