Sole rugby selector?

Press, 20 October 1981, Page 36

Sole rugby selector?

By

KEVIN McMENAMIN

The Canterbury Rugby L’nion is expected to revive an old debate when it decides tonight on its senior selection policy for next season.

Canterbury has a history, stretching back to the early 19305. of having a two-man selection panel, the same two men also .being responsible for the coaching. This is out of step with most other unions, which favour a sole selector-coach. A number of times in recent years Canterbury has considered a switch to one man, with the rider that he be permitted to co-opt a coaching assistant, if he wishes, and there have been

some close votes on the question.

In 1976 the status quo was maintained' only on the casting vote of the then chairman. Mr C. H. J. Rhodes.

Canterbury's lowly placings in the’ national championship over the last two seasons, plus the retirement of the panel convener for the last two years, Gerald Wilson, are factors that are likely to influence those who believe in the one-man system to restate their case tonight. Another factor which might influence the thinking, and have a big bearing on any vote that is taken, is the availability of certain people under the two systems. Some prominent coaches are likely to be interested in the job

only if they have sole command. After the union sets its policy tonight nominations will be invited from clubs and the appointments — or single appointment — will be made towards the end of next month. The country subunions also have a say in the election of Canterbury A. B and colts selectors.

As a way of streamlining the process and letting clubs know earlier what coaches they have available to them next year the union will make all three appointments at the same time this year. In the past, the Canterbury B and colts panels have been filled some weeks after the election of the Canterbury A selectors.