New MMT coach for Oceania Series [1]
Friday, September 13, 2019 - 18:51. Updated on Monday, September 16, 2019 - 11:07.
Frank Endacott has been announced as the new Mate Ma’a Tonga coach for the upcoming games against Great Britain and Australia in the Oceania Series to be played in New Zealand later this year.
The announcement was made by the Chairman of the Tongan National Rugby League, George Koloamatangi, on Wednesday 11 September.
“We are delighted that Frank has accepted this appointment because he brings a wealth of coaching experience to the Tongan campaign,” he said.
“Frank had a long tenure as coach of the NZ Kiwis, and has also coached the NZ Warriors in the NRL competition and Wigan in the English Super League.”
George recognized the contribution made by previous coach Kristian Woolf but said it was time for a change.
Endacott is looking forward to going against the two top rugby league nations.
“It’s always a challenge to take on the top teams, and both Australia and Great Britain have been in the top echelon for years. The Mate Ma’a Tonga players are world class and we see how good they are every week in both the NRL and Super league,” said Endacott.
“To have a chance to work with these players will be outstanding.”
George also announced new coaching staff made up of former professional rugby league players of Tongan heritage, Duane Mann, Manu Vatuvei and Leslie Vainokolo.
Duane is Football Director, Manu joins the coaching staff, and Leslie is Assistant Trainer.
George said the Football Director role will provide strategic direction and guidance to the MMT coaching and management staff and will report to the TNRL Board.
“Manu Vatuvei joins the coaching staff and apart from being a huge asset to the playing group will also focus on skills coaching for the outside backs.”
Leslie brings a lot of experience and knowledge to the team, he added.
“You can’t get better than this when our own Tongan legends put their hands up to contribute in a constructive way to Mate Ma’a Tonga. I am sure all fans will be excited at the announcement of these greats of Tongan heritage,” said George.
Other staff appointments including Assistant Coach will be announced in future.