Prolific club premiership-winning coach Chris Hickey was today announced as new head coach of the NSW Waratahs on a three-year deal.
Hickey takes over from Ewen McKenzie who was at the helm for five years and twice guided the Waratahs to the Super 14 final, including the just completed 2008 season, without securing a maiden title.
The appointment follows the controversial mid-season decision not to reappoint McKenzie for a further term.
The current Eastwood coach, Hickey has more than 14 years of first grade experience in Sydney and Canberra, where he has taken his sides to 11 grand finals and five premierships.
NSW Rugby Union chairman Arvid Petersen said Hickey's credentials, which also included two years at the helm of the Australian Under 21s, were the perfect qualifications for the role.
"Chris is a proven winner,'' said Petersen.
"His record with Eastwood has simply been stunning and we believe he can build upon what is already an impressive foundation.
"Obviously there's a high standard to live up to, but Chris inherits a great set up, a great playing roster and the organisation will now work with him on getting his coaching team finalised for 2009.''
"He's shown at a club level his ability to set up a fantastic program with limited resources and create a winning culture.
"At the Waratahs, Chris will have all the resources he needs to bring that experience to a completely professional environment and further develop the program at NSW Rugby.''
NSWRU chief executive Jim L'Estrange said 10 coaches had been interviewed for the job.
"We brought four back for a final interview and after that we settled on Chris Hickey being the candidate we would recommend to the board following the completion of the Waratahs' 2008 Super 14 campaign (at the weekend).
The decision from the board was unanimous.''
Hickey said he was thrilled to be given the opportunity.
"This is special opportunity I've been given and I'm excited about the role,'' said Hickey.
"Every professional rugby coach in this state wants to have the opportunity to be the Waratahs coach.
"It's a big challenge, a big responsibility, but I know I'm ready and can't wait to get started.
"Obviously the team is in great shape, but the Super 14 is the toughest provincial Rugby competition in the world and there's a lot of work that needs to be put in between now and the start of 2009 to ensure the side remains at the top.''
Hickey will formally start in the role on July 1, and will work with McKenzie and general manager high performance Tony D'Arcy in a handover capacity over the coming month.
AAP
