Crusaders back head coach Rob Penney for 2025 season

Crusaders have confirmed that Rob Penney will continue as the head coach for the 2025 season despite a dismal performance in the recently concluded campaign.

Penney, who replaced the club's most successful head coach Scott Robertson ahead of the 2024 season endured a tough outing as the club finished 9th in the table with four wins from 14 matches. This was also their worst performance since 2001 when they finished 10th in the table.

Following the result, the club conducted an independent review which concluded with the decision to stick with Penney.

Chief Executive Colin Mansbridge mentioned that independent reviews of the season led to over 50 recommended changes, but replacing Penney was not one of them.

“Rob’s got the backing of the board and he’s got the backing of the players,” said Mansbridge.

“At a high level, our worst result since 2001 created sleepless nights, no doubt about it,” said Mansbridge who acknowledged fans’ frustrations.

“Should our fans be gutted about where we ended up? Absolutely.

“I think the story of the Crusaders in the final next year would be pretty outstanding and that’s what we’re banking on.”