The Tasman Mako’s Defender of the Year re-signs with Super Rugby side

Former New Zealand Under 20 prop Ryan Coxon will return to the Western Force next season following a strong domestic campaign in New Zealand with Tasman Mako. Coxon was named the Mako’s Defender of the Year after a series of impressive performances in the NPC.

Coxon started at loosehead prop when the Mako made history by beating Hawke’s Bay to win the Ranfurly Shield for the first time in the province’s history. The 27-year-old started 10 matches in as many appearances, scoring four tries during the campaign as well.

The New Zealander will look to keep that purple patch of form going during next year’s Super Rugby Pacific season after signing a deal back with the Force. Coxon had departed the Force in June after starting eight matches, including the win over the Crusaders in Perth.

Initially, Coxon had made the move out west on the eve of the 2024 campaign, but the enforcer did enough to impress the coaching staff during that stint. Head coach Simon Cron said the Force were eager to bring Coxon back to add depth to their options at loosehead prop.

“Coxy really stepped up and played some good rugby for us last season,” Cron said in a statement. “We’ve got to continue to push depth, especially in the front row, and he adds plenty alongside guys like Marley Pearce and Harry Hoopert who are on the rise.

“Coxy earned a lot of respect within the team last year and deserves to have another go. By keeping him here, we’re retaining some cohesion which is important given we’ve had a bit of change within the playing group.”

Coxon brings invaluable experience to the Force after previously playing for the New Zealand Under 20 side and two other Super Rugby clubs. Alongside the likes of Will Jordan, the prop was included in New Zealand’s squad for the World Rugby U20 Championship in 2017.

The Hamilton-born tackle machine would go on to debut off the pine for the Chiefs in a 23-all draw with the Hurricanes on March 15, 2019. Coxon made another five appearances for the club before injuries began to limit his playing time.

An opportunity with the Crusaders in 2018 gave Coxon the chance to train alongside some of the best rugby players in New Zealand. But, the decision to head out west for the 2024 season seems to have paid off with Coxon getting a lot of minutes under his belt.

Coxon played 448 minutes across those eight matches for the Force, which included a 69-minute shift during an away loss to the ACT Brumbies in round three. The loosehead played more than 60 minutes on two occasions which is impressive.

“I’m excited to get back playing in front of the Sea of Blue,” Coxon added.

“I’m fizzed to reconnect with the lads and build on last year and I can’t wait for pre-season in the Perth heat.”