New Zealand confirm new head coach through to 2028

Rickards steps into the role after spending the last two seasons as assistant coach, succeeding Tomasi Cama following the conclusion of the 2026 World SVNS Series.

The 44-year-old will be supported by two familiar names, with former All Blacks Sevens captain Scott Curry appointed as assistant coach and former All Black and Commonwealth Games gold medallist Liam Messam joining the coaching group as performance coach.

Rickards, who represented the All Blacks Sevens between 2006 and 2009 before forging a successful coaching career with Taranaki, New Zealand Under-20s and the national sevens programme, said the appointment was a huge honour.

"To be entrusted with leading the All Blacks Sevens is an incredible privilege. This team has played a significant role in my life, first as a player and now as a coach, so to be given the opportunity to lead the programme is both humbling and exciting.

“We have a talented group of players and staff, including Scott and Liam. To have two former captains with experience across the World Rugby Sevens Series, including Olympic and Commonwealth games campaigns, will have a significant impact across our school, club, provincial and national sevens programmes.

Rickards' coaching résumé includes guiding Taranaki to the National Sevens Championship in 2013, helping the province win the NPC Premiership in 2014, overseeing a famous Ranfurly Shield triumph over Canterbury during his spell as head coach, and assisting New Zealand Under-20s to World Rugby U20 Championship glory in 2017.

Curry, who retired from playing in 2024 after featuring in 321 matches for the All Blacks Sevens, has already spent time with the programme in a part-time coaching role and is looking forward to taking the next step.

“I’m really grateful for the opportunity to continue with the All Blacks Sevens team in a full-time coaching role. This team has been a big part of my life and I’m excited to help this group continue to grow and perform on the world stage.”

Messam, a Rugby World Cup winner with the All Blacks and two-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist in sevens, will continue his athlete development role with the Chiefs alongside his national commitments.

“The All Blacks Sevens has played a big part in my career and it’s exciting to come back in and contribute as a coach. With the full support of NZ Rugby for the programme and the 2028 Olympics on the horizon there’s everything to play for and already some great talent in the group,” he said.

New Zealand Rugby Sevens High Performance lead Hannah Porter believes the new coaching team is well equipped to build towards Los Angeles 2028.

“We’re excited about what Willie, Scott and Liam will collectively bring to their respective roles. Willie brings a strong coaching skill set to the Head Coach role, with a proven ability to build high-performing environments, develop people, and drive consistent performance. Together, the coaching group brings complementary strengths and a shared vision that will continue to grow the programme and position the team to consistently perform on the world stage as it builds towards the 2028 Olympics.

"Scott and Liam have playing careers that speak for themselves. Their understanding of the All Blacks Sevens environment, combined with the leadership, care and standards they demonstrated throughout their careers, will be invaluable to support the continued growth of this group.”