In 2001 he guided the New Zealand Colts side for a season and in 2002 was the assistant coach at the Crusaders. Following the dismissal of Graham Mourie as Hurricanes coach Cooper was appointed to take over the franchise and came to prominence by guiding them to the semi-finals in two of his three seasons in charge.
In 2001 he oversaw the New Zealand Colts team for a season and in 2002 served as an assistant coach at the Crusaders. Following Graham Mourie's dismissal as Hurricanes head coach, Cooper was appointed to take over the franchise and gained prominence by leading them to the semi-finals in two of his three seasons in charge.