The Otago Rugby Football Union is excited to confirm the coaching group for the 2025 Otago Spirit, who will lead the team into another big Farah Palmer Cup campaign this season.

Returning as Head Coach is Matt Direen, who steps into the top role after two years as the Spirit’s Assistant Coach and Defensive Lead in 2023 and 2024. With a strong foundation in strategy and defensive systems, Direen will continue to drive the overall team strategy and defensive structures this season. A long-serving member of Kaikorai RFC, he has coached their Premier side in recent years and brings deep knowledge of Otago’s player development pathways.

Joining him as Assistant Coach – Attack is Marty Hurring, a well-known and respected coach across the Otago region. Currently working part time in the Otago Coach Development space, Hurring has coached a variety of representative sides and schools’ teams, including leading South Otago High School to their historic first win over Otago Boys’ High School. He will focus on the team’s attacking systems and skill development.

“I'm thoroughly looking forward to the challenge of coaching the Otago Spirit alongside Matt,” Hurring said. “This team has such a great positive vibe—on and off the field—which makes them easy to coach. Our shared goal is clear: promotion to the Premiership Division.”

Also returning is Ryan Griffith in his third season as Set Piece Coach. A specialist in scrum technique and set piece play, Griffith will once again oversee the scrum skill development and contribute to the team’s forward platform. He is currently the Scrum Coach for King’s High School 1^st XV and works with Otago age group representative teams across the region.

“I’m excited for another season working with this talented group,” Griffith said. “There’s huge potential in this squad, and it’s incredibly rewarding to help the girls grow, push boundaries, and meet that potential.”

The Otago Spirit are building steadily toward their goal of promotion, and this experienced coaching trio brings a strong balance of technical expertise, regional knowledge, and passion for the women’s game.

For any further questions, please contact Richard Kinley richard.kinley@orfu.co.nz  

Article added: Tuesday 24 June 2025