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Chiefs Manawa are looking for a new one Super Rugby Aupiki head coach for 2027 and current coach Dwayne Sweeney is stepping down.
The former Chiefs and Waikato player coached the team for two seasons and was instrumental in the growth of several Aupiki players who became Black Ferns.
The 42-year-old is ready to pursue career opportunities both on and off the pitch, feeling the time is right to step away.
Sweeney guided the Hamilton-based franchise to third place in 2025, before going winless in the recent Super Rugby Aupiki 2026 season.
“I have some exciting personal opportunities that I want to take advantage of. Doing so will make me unavailable to qualify for the head coaching position,” Sweeney said Friday.
“I’m excited about what we’ve built over the last few years and I’m working on putting the team in place for what will be a competitive 2027 season.”
Chiefs Rugby Club CEO Wayne Maher said it was a great opportunity for Sweeney to step up as head coach.
“While we are naturally disappointed to see him go, we are equally excited for Sweens as he takes on this next chapter, and he leaves with our sincere thanks and best wishes.”