Ready for CEO challenge

FUN AND GAMES: Poverty Bay Rugby Football Union chief executive Josh Willoughby says provincial unions and schools need to work together. File picture

JOSH Willoughby is “excited and looking forward to the challenges” after being appointed Poverty Bay Rugby Football Union’s chief executive.

“Heartland rugby is facing a number of challenges, particularly with attracting new players, especially in the 13 to 18 years age group among boys,” said the former Poverty Bay midfield back and Otago sevens representative, who officially starts the role on June 5.

“Poverty Bay have made big strides with the women’s rugby teams, and JAB (Junior Advisory Board) rugby is very strong, which is exciting.”

Rotorua-born Willoughby, who now considers himself a “Gizzy boy”, was one of 10 applicants from around New Zealand and one inquiry from South Africa for the CEO job, which became vacant after Marty Davis left the position on February 14.

“The inquiry from South Africa didn’t really go anywhere, which left 10 others seeking the position,” said Poverty Bay RFU board chairman George Brown.

A panel of three came up with a shortlist of three — Josh and two others — who were involved in admin roles in other unions.

“For obvious reasons I won’t name them as they are still involved with their respective unions.”

Willoughby is confident he has what it takes, and knows all about the challenges life can throw at youWilloughby does not have previous rugby union experience at this level but he is confident he has what it takes, and knows all about the challenges life can throw at you.

In 2016, then-31-year-old Willoughby, a non-smoker with no family history of cardiac disease, suffered a heart attack after a vigorous boxing session.

He underwent several months of medication for a blocked artery and changed his lifestyle.

It was the end of his playing career but he continued to be heavily involved with the game through the Ngatapa club.

“Rugby has always been an important part of my life, as a fan, player, and administrator, as well as having a sister (Shannon) who was a former Black Fern; an older brother (Aaron), who has played over 200 games for Kahukura Rugby Club in Rotorua and is still playing; and a mum who is involved in Maori rugby in Rotorua.

“I have a background in communication and I see rugby as not just a sport, but an important part of our community.

“The union is well set up, with a strong board, JAB and club council. They set up the strategies and it will be up to the union, myself, Karen Bryant (office manager), Dwayne Russell (Poverty Bay Heartland team assistant coach), Henry Lamont (junior development officer) and Zara Henderson (administration assistant) to enact those plans.

“I’ve briefly talked with Dwayne, and I will be meeting Mana (Otai, Poverty Bay coach). I’m a big believer in communication, which is why I want to attend all the local club committee meetings at some stage and talk to them.

“It’s important we all work together for the good of the game. I don’t like surprises and I’m sure neither do the sponsors, public, club and players.

“It’s not just about the game. It’s about all those who are involved, and we have a lot of volunteers who put in a lot of time and energy to the sport.

“I’m also a big listener so if anyone has any suggestions that can improve the game in any way, I’m willing to listen.

Willoughby came to Gisborne in 2007 before spending a couple of years working for Manawatu District Council”

He returned in 2014, joining Ngatapa, where he has helped coach the premier team, alongside Will Faulks, for the past two seasons.”