NSW Waratahs have today confirmed the appointment of Chris Malone as Assistant Coach to Daryl Gibson on a three year contract, to commence with the 2016 season. Malone, who will be a specialist attack and kicking coach, was recruited from the Sydney University club where he has been coach of the first grade Shute Shield side since 2013.
2016 Waratahs Coach Daryl Gibson said the appointment of Malone would bring a fresh perspective to the coaching team.
“Chris has been a wonderful coach at Sydney University, and has nurtured a number of top Waratahs Super Rugby players through the ranks already. He has a proven track record in player development and guiding teams to the finals.” Gibson said.
“We are extremely pleased to have a coach with his experience on board for the 2016 season and beyond. His appointment is also testimony to our desire to create a coaching pathway for young aspiring coaches in NSW.”
Malone, who will begin in the role at the completion of his Shute Shield duties with the University club, said he was looking forward to the challenge of working at the Waratahs.
“I’m absolutely delighted to be joining the Waratahs next season, and working alongside Daryl Gibson and the team to help build on the legacy that they and Michael Cheika have created there,” Malone said.
“I trust that my skills and experience, developed overseas at the professional level, and more recently in coaching in the Shute Shield, will assist in the development of the talent which exists at the Waratahs. This is a great opportunity for me to contribute to the future success of the club.”
Malone played with Sydney University in the Shute Shield from 1999-2001. In 2001 he captained Sydney University to their first Premiership title in 29 years.
At the completion of the 2001 season he moved to England and was based at the Exeter Chiefs for seven months, before a five year stint with Bath and four years based in London where he played two seasons for Harlequins and two for London Irish.
Malone then re-joined the Sydney University Club as High Performance Coach in June 2011 upon his return to Australia. He was then appointed Head Coach at the club in 2013 guiding the SUFC 1st Grade team to the Shute Shield Premiership that year.