MANAGER, HIGH PERFORMANCE
Steve Lancaster
The Manager, High Performance is responsible for National Senior Squads, National Age Grade, National Academy Programs and the coordination of High Performance Unit programs according to the National High Performance plan. The successful candidate will plan, manage, implement and promote best practice resulting in a positive image within and beyond the Canadian Rugby community. The Manager, High Performance is the person responsible for the management of the daily training environment of Rugby Canada’s development and elite Rugby Programs. The primary challenge of this position is to improve Canada’s international success and status, particularly in Sevens rugby for both men and women.
Steve Lancaster joined Rugby Canada in December 2012 as the Manager, High Performance. Steve comes with an extensive background in professional rugby having played rugby professionally in both New Zealand and Japan. For the past decade he has been engaged in senior administrative roles within the high performance function of the game in New Zealand, most recently as High Performance Manager of the Crusaders Super Rugby franchise and prior to that heading up the professional player, coach and referee department of the New Zealand Rugby Union. Steve’s background will be a major asset to the high performance operations of Rugby Canada.
Steve has an accomplished background as a professional rugby player, having been a part of three Rugby Super 12 Championship winning teams with the Crusaders, following a stint in Japan with Yamaha. Steve also has experience working with another sport as a Director for the Canterbury Netball Franchise and has also coached junior grade rugby in Canterbury.
Steve relocated from New Zealand to Vancouver Island with his wife and two children.