Darren Smith has been Vantage Black Sticks Head Coach since 2017, leading the team to silver at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and ninth at the 2018 World Cup as well as qualification for the Tokyo Olympics.

Before taking up the head coaching role, Smith coached the Irish Women’s team from 2012 to 2015. He was also Black Sticks Assistant Coach from 2007-2012 including the 2008 and 2012 Olympics and the bronze medal-winning team at the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

Smith played for his country on 212 occasions from 1995 to 2006, representing New Zealand at the 2004 Olympics, at two World Cups and at three Commonwealth Games in 1998, 2002 and 2006, winning a silver medal in 2002.