Former All Black Carlos Spencer has been named as the Blues backs coach for Super Rugby Aupiki next season.
The Blues great amassed 99 appearances for the Auckland-based side in nine seasons, after making his debut in 1999.
Since retiring in 2010, Spencer has coached with the Hurricanes, as well as in South Africa and with the New Orleans Gold in US Major League Rugby.
Known for his flair and finesse during his playing days, he hopes to bring that to the Blues, after being impressed by the women's game during the Black Ferns' World Cup triumph.
"When I was playing, I always liked to bring a bit of innovation and 'out-the-box' thinking to the table," Spencer said. "Now as a coach, I want to encourage and help grow those same traits in our Blues wahine.
"You've seen the rise of women's rugby and the way the public got right in behind the Black Ferns recently.
"We're at an exciting juncture for the sport and I'm really looking forward to getting involved, and doing what I can to help grow and support women's rugby."
Spencer is also looking forward to linking with Blues women's head coach Willie Walker and assistant Linda Itunu.
"I've known Willie for a while, we've thrown the touch ball around and have a good relationship," he said.
"He's done some fantastic work with the Auckland Storm in the Farah Palmer Cup, and I'm looking forward to exchanging ideas and getting the backline humming.
"I don't know Linda personally, but have seen her exploits on the rugby field for many years with the Black Ferns. She was certainly an enforcer on the field, and I'm sure she'll keep Willie and I in line off it."
