Blues head coach Vern Cotter has signed a one-year contract extension with the franchise which has him remaining at the Blues until the end of the 2026 season.
Cotter had success after joining the Blues in 2024, overseeing a Super Rugby Pacific championship in his first season at the helm.
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It was the franchises first title in 21 years.
He said the contract extension was a signal there was more work to be done.
“I’m not quite ready to be back on the farm full-time just yet,” said Cotter.
“I loved my first season here at the Blues and to have this contract extension confirmed after one year is a great show of confidence in me from the club and really sets my focus for the next two seasons with the team.
“I have a great group of coaches and support staff around me and I want to help continue their growth and development. I will continue to challenge and support them on their own journeys,” he said.
In his short time at the Blues, Cotter has made a strong impact on not only the playing group but all Blues staff he works alongside.
Blues CEO Andrew Hore said Cotter’s influence had been felt right throughout the franchise.
“It’s excellent to have Vern signed through until the end of 2026,” said Hore.
“We wanted to get this contract signed early as a show of faith in him as a coach and the direction he’s taking the team.
“One of the key values for our club is ‘people matter’. We’re constantly striving to create an environment where our people can grow and develop. Vern’s approach aligns with the club’s values, and we want to mirror some of that approach in the way we operate as a wider club.”
The Blues will start their 2025 season with a replay of this year’s final against the Chiefs.