Scott Hales appointed as South Island United head coach
Saturday 10 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story Auckland FC, New Zealand Football
Scott Hales has been named the new head coach for South Island United for the 2027 Oceania Pro League. He succeeds Rob Sherman, who led the side to a fourth-place finish during the league's inaugural season.
Key facts
5 facts
- Scott Hales is the new head coach for South Island United
- The appointment is for the 2027 Oceania Pro League season
- Rob Sherman was the previous head coach
- South Island United finished fourth in the inaugural OFC Pro League season
- The team plays three games in Papua New Guinea in January
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Scott Hales has been appointed as the new head coach for South Island United for the 2027 Oceania Pro League season. He succeeds Rob Sherman, who led the side to a fourth-place finish in the inaugural season.
Hales, a 44-year-old currently an OFC Pro Licence candidate, previously won the Northern League with Western Springs. He also won three national titles with Team Wellington, including the 2021 title.
South Island United chief executive Ryan Edwards stated that Hales' ability to develop clubs into title winners gave the club confidence. Edwards noted the appointment reflects a belief in New Zealand football talent and a desire to create pathways for local coaches.
The team's season begins in January with three matches in Papua New Guinea. They will play Tahiti United on 24 January, followed by PNG Hekari United on 27 January and Bula FC on 30 January.
Where reports differ
- One report states the team finished fourth in the inaugural season, while another notes a semifinal defeat to Auckland FC.
- Reports differ on the specific year of the upcoming season, with one citing next year and another citing 2027.
Compiled from reports by Otago Daily Times and The Press.
