David Kidwell. Photo: Photosport
Well-travelled defensive coach David Kidwell will join the Highlanders' coaching staff for next year's Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
Kidwell, 48, will replace the Dave Dillon, who has ended a three-year tenure as defence coach at the Highlanders.
Former Kiwis international Kidwell enjoyed a decade-long playing tenure in the NRL before forging his coaching career in the 13-man code. He was at the helm of the Kiwis for four years
Kidwell switched codes ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup when he served as defence coach for the Argentina national side under head coach Michael Cheika.
They steered the Pumas to the semi-finals at the global tournament, where they were well beaten by the All Blacks.
Kidwell has since served as the defence coach for Japan under Eddie Jones and linked again with Cheika in the same role at the Leicester Tigers in the English Premiership.
Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph. Photo: Sam Bauld
Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph welcomed Kidwell's appointment.
"David brings a unique skill set, an intense defensive mindset, and strong mana," Joseph said.
"His experience at the international level, both in league and union, makes him an exciting addition to our coaching group. We're confident he'll bring real steel to our defensive identity."
Kidwell said he was looking forward to coaching on home soil.
"I'm really excited to be coaching the Highlanders, and to be back home in New Zealand 30 years on from when I left as an 18-year-old to pursue my dream of playing in the NRL - a journey built on grit, hard work, and a winning mindset," Kidwell said.
"Now, as a defence coach, I thrive on adding value to organisations both on and off the field. I bring a strong focus on physicality, mindset, and team culture, and I believe that success is built not just through discipline and effort, but also through having some fun along the way. "
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