Asahi Valley player-coach Semi Iafeta will contest Terry Hart for the job of Hong Kong 15s coach. The New Zealander, who spearheaded Valley's successful First Division League campaign last season, believes that he is the right candidate to provide a 'fresh approach' for local rugby.
'Yes, I'm in the running for the coaching job,' confirmed Iafeta yesterday. 'Hong Kong rugby needs fresh ideas and I can provide that. I would love to stand up to the challenge of coaching Hong Kong.'
Iafeta, 31, a storming back-rower, made his local debut last season and played a crucial role in Valley regaining the top title. Iafeta said he intended to play for Valley again next season and discounted the possibility that his hands-on involvement would detract from his coaching tasks.
'I would definitely like to play for Valley again next season. I won't like to stand on the sidelines. Playing will be a priority as I still got a bit of petrol in the old tank. And I don't think it should be a problem as far as coaching Hong Kong is concerned,' said Iafeta.
While welcoming the challenge, Hart however cast doubts over whether Iafeta would be able to provide an unbiased opinion and also find the time to watch other teams and players.
'Apart from anything else, it will be difficult to do both jobs - play and watch other players - on a Saturday. Also, it is difficult to be linked to any one club. I found it out myself when at the start of coaching Hong Kong, I was also briefly coaching Valley. I had to give up my club job,' said Hart.