Highlanders chief Jamie Joseph applauds the Springboks’ acquisition of Tony Brown as attack coach, highlighting his universal appeal and shared values with players.
Brown and Jerry Flannery were confirmed this week to be the two new faces on the coaching staff for the world champions from the 2024 season, under returning head coach Rassie Erasmus.
On Brown’s future with the Boks, Joseph predicts success beyond the field, citing the former All Blacks flyhalf’s renowned innovation and measurable impact with the Highlanders and in Japan.
“He’s renowned for his innovation on the field, around the game, and there’s so many examples of that,” Joseph was quoted by New Zealand media outlet Stuff.
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“His rugby values and his personal values are the same. So, that’s what he wants in his players around hard work and integrity and honesty and humour, and balance.”
Describing Brown as an all-around sports enthusiast, Joseph praises his camaraderie, stating, “He’s everything… he’s a good sports person, he’s quite happy to have a beer, he plays golf, he plays cricket, he plays every sport, and he just loves the team.
“For a head coach, he’s an awesome support in that area.”
Joseph assures a seamless fit into the Bok setup, noting, “He does it in a way that he doesn’t intrude on a culture. He did it in Japan, and he’ll do it in any team.
“The rugby side of ‘Brownie’ is good, but the other part is just as good.”
Photo: Andrew Cornaga/www.Photosport.nz