Kate Sheppard Cup holders Auckland United have unveiled Ben Bate as their new women’s Premier League coach.
Bate (37) joins from Northern Rovers who were beaten finalists in the Kate Sheppard Cup and are the 2022 Lotto NRFL Women’s Premier League champions.
Announcing that Bate would coach the women’s first team and run the United girls’ academy, Auckland United said:
“With an extensive background in developing some of New Zealand top youth players, Ben has also enjoyed roles with New Zealand Football as Performance Analyst at both the U20 men’s and U17 women’s World Cup.
“We are delighted to welcome Ben to the Auckland United family and continue the ongoing success of our women’s pathway.”
Main photo: Ben Bate … moving to Keith Hay Park for 2023. Photo: Shane Wenzlick / Phototek.
Rovers have been advertising for a new head coach following Bate’s decision to leave the club in early December.
When Rovers confirmed Bate would be leaving, the club said: “Ben is working through some exciting personal opportunities and Northern Rovers wish Ben every success in 2023 and beyond.
“Over the course of 2022, Ben’s commitment and dedication to our Premier Women’s team has been exceptional. Our success over the course of this season is a credit to Ben and his involvement.”
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