ARU turn to Nucifora
High performance role for Blues coach
Last updated: 21st May 2008
David Nucifora is set to return home as the Australian Rugby Union's new high performance manager.
The Blues coach had announced on May 1 he would be ending his association with the Auckland-based Super 14s franchise after the conclusion of the season.
And he has now accepted the chance to replace Pat Howard at the ARU.
Nucifora, a former Wallabies hooker, has spent three seasons in charge at the Blues, having previously led the ACT Brumbies for the 2004 Super 12s title.
Nucifora had also been linked to the position at NSW Waratahs, with Ewen McKenzie told he would not have his contract renewed.
Nucifora just needs to sort out the arrangements for his family to return to Australia before he can officially be unveiled.
ARU chief executive John O'Neill said: "David will take up his position in June.
"There's no other hurdles and, if that's (schooling for his children) resolved this week, we will able to formally announce he's joining the ARU at the beginning of June."
| Time | Result |
|---|---|
| Super 14 | |
| Saturday 31st May | |
| Crusaders 20 - 12 Waratahs | |
| Saturday 24th May | |
| Waratahs 28 - 13 Sharks | |
| Crusaders 33 - 22 Hurricanes | |
| Saturday 17th May | |
| Sharks 47 - 25 Chiefs | |
| Cheetahs 20 - 60 Bulls | |
| Lions 13 - 22 Stormers | |
| Reds 11 - 18 Waratahs | |
| Crusaders 14 - 26 Highlanders | |
| Friday 16th May | |
| Western Force 29 - 22 Brumbies | |
| Blues 19 - 17 Hurricanes | |
Super 14 Top 6
| Pos | Team | P | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Crusaders | 12 | 52 |
| 2 | Hurricanes | 13 | 41 |
| 3 | Blues | 13 | 40 |
| 4 | NSW Waratahs | 12 | 39 |
| 5 | Stormers | 12 | 37 |
| 6 | Sharks | 12 | 37 |
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