NZR welcomes new President, Vice President

NEWS: Former rugby internationals Matthew Cooper and Erin Rush have been elected as the President and Vice President of New Zealand Rugby (NZR) at the Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Former Black Fern, Rush, is the first woman to hold the vice president’s office for NZR. She joins Matthew Cooper who takes over Max Spence as President.

NZR Chair Dame Patsy Reddy said: "Matt and Erin are highly respected in rugby circles and will be exceptional ambassadors for New Zealand Rugby.

"Their roles help in our vision to inspire and unify through rugby, and I know both will enjoy connecting with people involved in the game at every level."

The AGM celebrated several successes, both on and off the field from 2023.

Participation numbers increased by 7% in 2022 with 147,434 community rugby players taking the field last year, spurred by a 20% growth in women and girls participants and teenage participants up by 11%.

"There are so many benefits to playing rugby – from the physical to the social – and to see more people enjoying the game across the country is exciting.

"We are aware there are still challenges in the community game, however, these are encouraging trends we hope to continue in 2024," said Dame Patsy.