Rugby: Bell re-appointed as Wellington coach

Andre Bell. Photo / Wairarapa Times-Age

Wellington Rugby today announced that Andre Bell has been re-appointed as coach of the Wellington Lions.

Bell took up the role on a temporary basis in August of this year following the departure of Jamie Joseph to the Highlanders.

The former Bay of Plenty coach led the team to the ITM Cup play-offs, before eventually missing out 57-41 in a thrilling semi-final in Christchurch.

He is delighted at the prospect of coaching the Lions in the 2011 competition, after successfully applying for the role on a full-time basis.

"I'm pleased the process is over and am really looking forward to next year," he explained.

"Where the Vodafone Wellington Lions finished this year is where we would like to get to as a starting point for our 2011 campaign. Coming in mid-way through this year meant there were a number of changes for the players. They had to understand different ways of coaching, but then momentum started to pick up.

"Our goal is to win the ITM Cup. Some teams are happy just to make the semis but we want to win - we have high expectations. We also want to ensure there is continuity between the Hurricanes and Wellington, as many of our players are in the Hurricanes squad.

"This season is going to be about bringing a lot of younger players and academy players through. The depth we have in the squad is important.

"There is a huge amount of talent there - factoring in the number of under 20s players coming through. Club play in the Wellington region is also strong so there are lots of players coming through for the future."

- Herald online