The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union today announced the appointment of Kevin Schuler as the new Steamers Head Coach. Schuler has been appointed for the next three years.

Schuler most recently has been involved with the Chiefs in the 2011 Super 15 competition as a resource coach, as well as coaching the Chiefs Development team.

Prior to this Schuler was the Head Coach at Yamaha Motors Rugby Football Club in Japan. Schuler has previous Head Coaching experience at the ITM Cup level coaching the Bay of Plenty Steamers in 2007 and 2008.

Schuler said “I am excited about being back involved with Bay of Plenty rugby. The Steamers are now one of the top provincial teams in the country and the Union want to continue the progress of recent years. The performance of the Steamers and the development of our young talent are clear expectations and I am looking forward to the challenge of delivering on these key fronts.”

Schuler added “I am also looking forward to getting out and about and contributing to the wider Bay rugby community again.”

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union Chief Executive Mike Rogers said “We are delighted that after a comprehensive recruitment process we have been able to secure Herb to lead our team for the next three years. We are confident that He will not only ensure our Steamers team performs to the level our stakeholders and community expect but will also be a key contributor in our vision of developing our local talent and having a positive involvement in our community.”