**Stephen Jones Lauded by Rugby Greats for Transformative Role in New Zealand**
Welsh rugby icon Stephen Jones has drawn high praise from New Zealand rugby royalty after relocating to the Southern Hemisphere to take up a coaching position at Moana Pasifika. The former Wales captain’s influence is not only being felt on the pitch, but he’s also winning recognition for his character and coaching intellect during a challenging stint on the far side of the world.
Jones, who stepped down as Wales’ attack coach in late 2022 following Warren Gatland’s reappointment as head coach, seized the opportunity to broaden his coaching horizons by joining Tana Umaga’s coaching staff at the Auckland-based Super Rugby Pacific side. His appointment marked a pivotal move at a crucial time for Moana Pasifika; the club had endured consecutive wooden spoons prior to his arrival.
This season, the team defied expectations and came within touching distance of securing their maiden play-off berth—an impressive turnaround partly credited to Jones’ innovative coaching. While the improvement on the field has been clear, the Welshman has spoken of his deep appreciation for the Pacific culture and the collaborative coaching structure that Umaga has fostered. “I’ve been blown away by the openness and willingness to discuss ideas here,” Jones remarked earlier this year, signalling his contentment with the welcoming environment.
Tana Umaga himself has been effusive in his praise for Jones, both in terms of his rugby pedigree and his approach to people. “It’s honestly been a pleasure to work with Stephen,” Umaga shared in a recent interview. “He’s not just an outstanding coach—his knowledge of the fly-half role is legendary—but above all, he’s a wonderful person.”
Umaga highlighted Jones’ expertise in refining the tactical kicking game, an area not traditionally prioritised within New Zealand rugby, but increasingly vital in the modern era where defensive lines close fast and territory is fiercely contested. Umaga added, “His attention to detail in this aspect has educated not only our players but us as coaches too. He understands the value of smart play in high-pressure moments and has shaped our strategy against top opposition.”
The personal challenges faced by Jones have not gone unnoticed by his Kiwi colleagues. After moving to New Zealand with his family, he has since remained in Auckland while his wife and children have returned to Wales so their son could begin higher education there. Umaga insists this sacrifice underscores Jones’s commitment and professionalism. “He’s doing it tough, but you’d never guess it—his energy is infectious and his dedication undiminished,” he said.
For Jones himself, the environment at Moana Pasifika has proved both inspiring and stimulating. He has spoken of the “healthy” atmosphere among the coaching staff, where constructive debates and the sharing of ideas are encouraged. The synergy between forwards coach Tom Coventry, head coach Umaga, and Seilala Mapusua ensures a lively blend of perspectives that Jones has found invaluable.
The significance of such open collaboration hasn’t been lost on the players either, with several crediting the coaching group’s willingness to adapt and evolve tactics for this season’s improvements. Jones pointed out the willingness of all coaches, regardless of background, to contribute innovative ideas and challenge each other for the benefit of the team.
Despite the upswing in fortunes, Jones recognises there is still much work ahead before Moana Pasifika firmly establish themselves among Super Rugby’s elite. But with admiration from rugby heavyweights like Umaga, and new-found respect from the Pacific community and beyond, the Welshman’s bold move appears to be yielding both professional and personal rewards.
Stephen Jones’ journey stands as a testament to the enduring value of adaptability, openness and resilience in elite sport. His ongoing adventure in New Zealand represents much more than a new chapter in his coaching career—it’s a cross-continental story of learning, partnership, and mutual respect underpinning real progress on the field.