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Running It Straight: 6pm TuesdaysNZ Rugby loses All Blacks' head of performance to NFL's Baltimore Ravens
Sport Nation • March 3rd, 2026 9:23 am
Dr Nic Gill | Photo: Photosport
New Zealand Rugby has farewelled long-time All Blacks performance chief Nic Gill, who will depart in April to take up a senior role with the Baltimore Ravens.
Gill, who has spent two decades shaping the physical edge of the All Blacks, will become the Ravens’ Vice President of Health and Performance, overseeing medical services, conditioning, sports science, recovery and player availability.
First joining the All Blacks setup in 2004, Gill went on to lead the national side’s strength and conditioning programme from 2008, playing a key role across more than 240 Tests, including two Rugby World Cup triumphs and a sustained era of dominance.
Gill said leaving was a tough call but the right time for his family to embrace a new challenge, adding he was deeply grateful for the people and opportunities rugby had given him over the past 20 years.
“Coincidentally, the All Blacks game against South Africa in Baltimore this year would have been my 250th All Blacks Test," Gill said in a statement.
"It is not easy to move on from something that has been such a huge part of my life, but new beginnings brings a time of reflection and I am so grateful for all the opportunities I have had and the great humans I’ve had the privilege to work alongside in the game we all love."
Former All Blacks Captain Sam Cane spoke of the immense contribution Gill has made to the All Blacks legacy over a long period of time.
“On behalf of all players who have had the privilege of working with him, I’d like to say a massive congratulations on an outstanding career with the All Blacks," said Cane.
"His combination of experience, knowledge, care, commitment and work ethic, along with being a top human being, has made him an invaluable part of the All Blacks group.
“Gilly knew when to push you and when to pull back and you always knew he had your best interests at heart. He wanted to help make you the best player you could be. Everyone had complete trust in him.
“He’ll be sorely missed but we thank him and his family for their amazing service to the All Blacks and wish him all the best for the next chapter.”
NZR interim chief executive Steve Lancaster praised Gill’s impact, describing him as a driving force behind the team’s longevity and innovation.
"Nic has given so much to this team and the athletes he has worked with over the years," said Lancaster.
"His commitment to learning and innovation have ensured he has remained at the forefront of athlete performance and contributed significantly to the All Blacks’ success over the last two decades.
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