The exciting news for Walker came just after the Auckland Storm’s 72-0 win over North Harbour, at QBE Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Auckland Rugby were made aware by Walker early in the year that he and his wife would be having their first child late in the FPC season. But due to the delayed start of the competition, it has meant that Walker will be leaving earlier than anticipated. Head of High Performance, Ben Meyer was excited to hear the news for Walker and his wife.
“Richie disclosed to us his news early this year and that he was still 100% committed to coming to New Zealand to coach the Auckland Storm. It is an exciting time in anyone’s life to experience the birth of their first child. We completely support Richie’s decision to head back to be with his wife and thank him for the contribution he has made to help the Auckland Storm to this point. We wish him all the best with growing his Whanau” said Meyer.
Current assistant coaches Anna Richards and Craig Hall will both move into a “co-coaching” role for the final few rounds of the season. Auckland Rugby Coach Development Manager and former Northland Mitre 10 Cup Coach, Richie Harris will step in to assist the coaching team for the remainder of the Farah Palmer Cup. Walker will continue to provide coaching and mentoring support from San Diego.
The Auckland Storm play Bay of Plenty in Round 5 of the Farah Palmer Cup this Saturday at 2:05pm at Pakuranga Rugby Club. Due to Alert Level 2 COVID-19 Protocols, access into the park will be restricted to the public.