Rugby: Highlanders coaches help NZ Defence Force team

The New Zealand Defence Force rugby team have been getting extra help ahead of the inaugural International Defence Force Competition. Photo / Getty Images

Highlanders assistant coaches Simon Culhane and Kieran Keane have this week been helping the New Zealand Defence Force rugby team ahead of the inaugural International Defence Force Competition which starts on Saturday.

The pair have spent two days getting the team in shape for the tournament to be held in Australia and New Zealand.

Former All Black Culhane said: "There has been a fair bit of learning and now it's time for the coaches to put the 'polish' on those lessons. They [NZDF team] are a very tight group and will work hard to be the best they can be. The receptiveness of the players was refreshing and they showed a willingness to take on new stuff and work hard to implement the systems."

Keane was also impressed with the dedication of the players. "As a New Zealand team there will be expectations to do well although down on resources and dollars, that could well be a key driver making the group tighter," he said.

NZDF coach Pita Lloyd was pleased with the way the team has "gelled" during the training camp.

"It's been a great experience for the team and our own coaching staff working with Simon and Kieran. They have certainly lifted our spirits and given us a number of systems and options to improve our performance throughout the tournament."