This week marks the start of Kelly Haimona's new role off the field with the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union.
Haimona will be the junior rugby development officer for the Central Bay of Plenty and will be involved in the delivery of a number of community projects for both junior and Maori rugby.
Bay of Plenty Steamer Haimona said he was excited about the role and contribution he would be making to his local community.
"It is exciting. It is a role that I have wanted to do for a while now and definitely something I have wanted to get into after rugby.
"The thing I am looking forward to is being able to create an environment for them to get involved in Rippa Rugby and inspiring them to aspire to play for the Bay of Plenty one day. But the best thing about this role will be working with the young kids in Rotorua and the wider Central Bay of Plenty community," said Haimona.
Mike Rogers, Bay of Plenty Rugby Union chief executive, said it was great to have Haimona on board.
"Kelly is a fantastic ambassador for Bay Rugby and also Maori rugby. He has been able to have some fantastic experiences through rugby and using his skills and experience to help our young players and especially young Maori players is a great way he can contribute to our game and our community."
