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Tabai Matson lands new head coach role after Harlequins exit
By Josh Raisey
Former Harlequins director of performance development Tabai Matson has been named the new head coach of BlackRams Tokyo in Japan Rugby League One.
Matson has landed the role just weeks after his three-year stint at the Stoop was brought to a close.
The former Fiji international had previously worked as head coach of Quins, but changed his role in the final year of his stay in London.
He will take over a BlackRams side that maintained their status in Japan's premier league last season through a relegation play-off.
Former All Black Carl Hoeft and former Japan fullback Go Aruga will also serve as Matson's assistants in Tokyo.
"NTT Japan Rugby League One is becoming a world-renowned competition with many of the best players and coaches plying their trade in it," Matson said.
"Setagaya ward is the heart of Tokyo, and I’m really looking forward to representing our community in League One and enjoying everything this beautiful Setagaya ward within Tokyo has to offer.
"BlackRams Tokyo are determined to progress and improve their rugby performances, so I’m excited about the challenges ahead.
"Every year League One is becoming more competitive, so we must change and adapt to the new challenges from other teams.
"My experiences living, playing, and coaching in 5 different countries, as well as coaching Fiji and Maori All Blacks, have taught me how important culture is to the performance of the team.
"I lived in Japan for five years as a player coach and understand the strength and beauty of the Japanese people.
"I’m looking forward to learning again and helping this amazing club move forward."
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Latest Comments
Nah hes a journeyman. Right call
Go to commentsAgreed for the most part. And perhaps Dmac needed a period were he is the 'Hobson's choice' too.
Yes and no, they main concern I had from the situation is Razor didn't really explain why they had developed differing opinions, had he? I've seen too many things happen in life to jump the gun. Fall all we know it was a locked in choice before they found the difference last year and played out this year to see if they were recoverable. I can certainly see where it would be a valid criticism to suggest he spent too much time reviewing his players tripping overseas and not enough work with his team at that time. But things like Tony Brown not even being contacted in the lead up to the naming of the squad are endemic in the union, and for much just as much blame should be laid on someone like Wayne Smith. Some like Mitch would have been aval at the same time too I'd think.
Ultimately I see MacDs time at the Blues much as I saw Ian Fosters time at the Chiefs. Heavily overshadowed by their successors but you could find something good in there if you wanted. Same here. This will play out.
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