 |
 Herring in 2025 | |||||
| Date of birth | 14 March 1980 [1] | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Place of birth | Auckland, New Zealand [1] | ||||
| University | University of Otago, World Rugby Educator | ||||
| Occupation(s) | Professional coach, Podcaster Host, Author, Speaker | ||||
| Rugby union career | |||||
| |||||
| Official website | |||||
| https://www.coachingculture.com.au/ | |||||
Ben Herring is a rugby union coach and former professional player.
 |
Herring began his professional playing career in New Zealand, as an openside flanker. He played for Southland and later Wellington in New Zealand’s National Provincial Championship (NPC).
He made his Super Rugby debut with the Highlanders, and later joined the Hurricanes.
In 2007, Herring moved to England to join the Leicester Tigers. A series of concussions forced his early retirement in 2009.
| |
Leicester Tigers (2009–2011)
Following his retirement, Herring was appointed assistant coach at Leicester under Richard Cockerill. Over three seasons, he helped guide the Tigers to two Premiership titles (2008–09, 2009–10) and one runner-up finish (2010–11), plus Heineken Cup semifinal appearances.
NEC Green Rockets, Japan (2011–2013)
He then moved to Japan to join NEC Green Rockets alongside Greg Cooper. In his first season, the team achieved its highest-ever Top League finish (3rd).[ citation needed ]
Canada (2013–2015)
With Herring as an assistant coach with both the 15s and 7s national teams, the men’s 7s side reached their highest world ranking (6th), while the women’s 7s team consistently ranked in the top 3 globally.
Highlanders, Otago, Sunwolves, Japan (2015–2018)
Returning to New Zealand, Herring coached Otago and worked with the Highlanders. He then joined the Japan national team under Jamie Joseph and Tony Brown, serving as defence coach. He was also assistant coach for the Sunwolves in Super Rugby.
Otago head coach (2018–2019)
Herring became head coach of Otago, leading them to win the Ranfurly Shield and reach the Championship final in 2018.
Hino Red Dolphins & Toyota Verblitz (2019–2024)
Back in Japan, Herring was coach of Hino Red Dolphins before being appointed head coach of Toyota Verblitz, under director of rugby Steve Hansen.
In 2024, Herring was appointed director of rugby at Newington College in Sydney.
Herring is the co-author of the book Coaching Culture (with Paul Phillips), which offers practical and philosophical insights into leading connected, high-performing teams.
Herring hosts the podcast Coaching Culture with Ben Herring, where he interviews coaches and thinkers across sports and leadership.