MLR Utah Warriors

Warriors Extend Assistant Coach Robbie Abel

Published on July 28, 2022 under Major League Rugby (MLR)
Utah Warriors News Release


HERRIMAN - The Utah Warriors have agreed to a three-year extension with Assistant Coach Robbie Abel, the team announced Thursday.

"l am delighted that Robbie has agreed to continue as assistant coach," said Warriors' Head Coach Greg Cooper. "He is respected by the players for his knowledge and his ability to deliver that knowledge in a clear and understandable style. As Warrior Nation, we are fortunate to have someone with the character and values that Robbie possesses and someone who strongly believes in the team and community he represents."

"We are delighted to welcome Robbie Abel back to the organization for the next three years," said Warriors' General Manager Brandon Sparks. "He is just starting his coaching career but has potential to change the game of rugby at the global level one day. I'm excited the Utah Warriors can be the launching pad for that."

Abel served as assistant coach alongside Shaun Davies during the 2021 season, overseeing the forwards unit for Utah. Under Abel's leadership, the Warriors won the most scrums of any team in Major League Rugby with 124. Additionally, the Utah Forwards finished with the second-fewest penalties and second-fewest turnovers of any Forwards group in the MLR and tallied 1,296 tackles and 19 tries in 2021 under Abel's direction.

"My whānau and I are excited to rejoin our Utah family and team," said Abel. "The possibilities excite us, and we look forward to seeing how much this team can grow this coming season. I'm also excited to reunite with Shaun [Davies] and coach with Greg Cooper. Having the opportunity to coach with someone as experienced as Coops is a big blessing for me and my development. I can't wait to rip in."

An Australian Native, Abel has extensive experience in professional rugby in both Australia and New Zealand. Abel has played professionally for the Brumbies and Waratahs in Australia, and Auckland in New Zealand, among many others. Abel has also appeared for the Māori All Blacks, a team that represents New Zealand and is composed only of players with Māori genealogy, in a USA and South America tour.

Abel will continue to oversee the Forwards as an Assistant Coach for the Utah Warriors.

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