Just a quick update for those who have contacted me about the iBook I have been working on. I have looked to make a series of titles as I just could not stop adding to my original. The aim is to help keep things pretty current but also to keep the price down.
But now I have come across a bit of an obstacle with trying to publish through iTunes. The problem is a little issue with paying taxes through the US. While I have no issues with paying the tax I do have a problem if I end up paying twice or even worse being chased for tax money by the States while possibly not being aware I had some to pay! Anyone with a little knowledge in this area who can help please drop me a line.
My first issue will cover the role of a skills coach and some of my philosophies. Also I will cover the basic skills and offer a progressive method to teaching these. I just need to get a bit more video and I am ready to go. Each skill will also have a breakdown of it's requirements and some simple activities and drills that can be done either as an individual or in a small group to team environment.
So if I can sort out this tax issue I hope to have this first issue up by the end of Feb 2013.
Tuesday, 15 January 2013
Tuesday, 22 May 2012
Why are there no coaching manuals anymore?
Could it be that nobody wants to stick their neck out and put something in print that says this is the way things are done? Or could it be that the game is constantly changing and last seasons methods don't work anymore? Maybe it is just too big a job?,Or perhaps we can just "google" it!
I think it could be a combination of all of the above and it might just fall into the too hard basket. Sure the game is constantly changing and I often refer to the game of rugby as a living thing and like all living things it must adapt to survive. However that does not mean we must completely change what we do, many parts of the game are still the same as they have been for years. I have been very lucky to be exposed to some of the best coaches from around the world and the differences are more in the "how" and not the "what". All teams must catch, pass run, kick, scrum etc. There are lots of "how to" videos online but which ones work for you? Below I have written a quick outline on the things required to catch and pass maybe some of this will help you find what is right for you out there.
The basic pass can be broken down to three main actions:
- The catch
- The transfer
- The release
A change through any of these stages will produce a different result.
Each of these actions are influenced by a number of variables:
- The delivery prior to the catch
- Speed of the pass
- The weather conditions
- The amount of pressure applied
- Depth
- Alignment
- Support
Then we can bore down deeper and look at the:
- Body shape i.e high or low
- Hand position
- Core strength
- Communication
- Vision
To look further we can even start to prioritise. For example is catching the ball early and out in front a high priority for a player with lots of time and space? We might say "yes" if we believe those extra few seconds will allow him greater time to scan for opportunities or we could say "no" with the emphasis on making sure to catch it at all! How about a forward running wide and flat from a breakdown? We might say "yes" as he will be in a better position to quickly pass it on if the opportunity is there or we may say "no" if we put more emphasis on taking it in close to protect the ball. When asking ourselves these questions we can go even deeper by looking at our team strategy.
So here we are now all of a sudden at team strategy! Could strategy be described as using all of your combined skills to create or exploit a weakness in the opposition?If so then that brings us back to that word "skill" again! One of the most used skills is the catch and pass. Ok here we go again refer to top of page!!
In much of this the ability to control "Time and Space" in almost all skill areas of the game is the key. But which comes first? To allow a skill to develop we must give a player the time and space to perfect the skill. It is from this solid foundation that we systematically apply pressure by reducing the time and space available to the player. To me this will always give both the player and the coach somewhere to go back to when things don't go so well.
So why are the no coaching manuals out there? Well that little blurb above was simply refering to what to look for but with no technical tips at all! So could you imagine the time it would take to fill in the detail, add the variables, take into account the various strategic outcomes a coach may be looking for? So probably the time taken to complete such a manual would lapse just in time for the next stage of the games evolution.
Wednesday, 4 April 2012
Argentina: The Next Frontier
I'm back home in Palmerston North after a month in Argentina working with city and rural clubs in this new frontier of rugby development. For years the coaches in Argentina have been highly regarded by those who work with them but it was the passion of the players and the people involved that made me think of how rugby used to be in New Zealand.
For this coaching tour Ellis Rugby recruited the services of Dennis Brown who was magnificent and added so much value for his insight into planning and management strategies in modern rugby. Brownie has a wealth of experience having worked with NZ colts and age groups teams with great success over many years. With Brownie churning away with the coaches in the classroom and me slugging it out on the field we were able to cater for all the requirements of the players and coaches involved. The tour was made possible thanks to foresight and great planning by Mariano Salleras and Maurico Naranjo Sosa who co-ordinated with 4 clubs to share the cost of funding our visit. The hospitality given to us by all these clubs was outstanding and has left us with many fond memories of our time in Argentina.
The strength of the club system in Argentina was reminiscent of days gone by in NZ; all the clubs are very family oriented and community based. As Argentinean rugby looks to move forward into a professional environment I sincerely hope they don't lose the passion and enthusiasm at grass roots level.
In Buenos Aires our tour started at the Pucara Club which is one of the top clubs in Argentina. This is where we first witnessed the enthusiasm and love for the game that the rugby people of Argentina have and I think this surprised both Brownie and myself. The players are of really good quality and many were getting ready to embark on a tour of Europe - carrying a party of over 100 players and management - astounding.
Our stay at Monte Grande Club in Buenos Aires was one of our longest - we were working there for two weeks with only a four day break in the middle to go to Iguazu. Monte Grande is a real club on the move, currently paying in the second division but with great vision looking to the future. They have a strong junior programme and some fantastic coaches at their senior level.
The Taraguy Rugby Club in Corrientes formed 50 years ago and their admiration for NZ rugby was such that they modeled their club on the All Blacks. To this day they still play in black, even though it is oppressively hot in Corrientes; and we were treated to a stirring rendition of the haka by the youngsters in the junior club. (Aee my Facebook page for the video). Later, during some speeches the passion demonstrated by some of the founding members when talking about their club and New Zealand rugby made Brownie and I both very proud to be kiwis.
The smaller Cataratas Club in Iguazu, whilst not blessed with the numbers or talent of the bigger clubs in Buenos Aires still demonstrated that strong Argentinean passion for the game. Here we also came into contact with players who travelled from as far as Brazil and Paraguay to participate in our coaching sessions. We'll never forget the wonderful service from Pablo and his wife at their awesome La Rueda restaurant - a must visit place if you are ever in this part of the world.
Thanks to all those people who showed us such kindness - there is too many names to list here but the memories will last forever.
For those who might be looking to venture into this new frontier my advice would be to learn spanish and go with an open heart as the people are so warm and welcoming. It may not be the land of opportunity in a financial sense, but I'm certain that your spiritual well-being will be uplifted by the experience.
For this coaching tour Ellis Rugby recruited the services of Dennis Brown who was magnificent and added so much value for his insight into planning and management strategies in modern rugby. Brownie has a wealth of experience having worked with NZ colts and age groups teams with great success over many years. With Brownie churning away with the coaches in the classroom and me slugging it out on the field we were able to cater for all the requirements of the players and coaches involved. The tour was made possible thanks to foresight and great planning by Mariano Salleras and Maurico Naranjo Sosa who co-ordinated with 4 clubs to share the cost of funding our visit. The hospitality given to us by all these clubs was outstanding and has left us with many fond memories of our time in Argentina.
The strength of the club system in Argentina was reminiscent of days gone by in NZ; all the clubs are very family oriented and community based. As Argentinean rugby looks to move forward into a professional environment I sincerely hope they don't lose the passion and enthusiasm at grass roots level.
In Buenos Aires our tour started at the Pucara Club which is one of the top clubs in Argentina. This is where we first witnessed the enthusiasm and love for the game that the rugby people of Argentina have and I think this surprised both Brownie and myself. The players are of really good quality and many were getting ready to embark on a tour of Europe - carrying a party of over 100 players and management - astounding.
Our stay at Monte Grande Club in Buenos Aires was one of our longest - we were working there for two weeks with only a four day break in the middle to go to Iguazu. Monte Grande is a real club on the move, currently paying in the second division but with great vision looking to the future. They have a strong junior programme and some fantastic coaches at their senior level.
The Taraguy Rugby Club in Corrientes formed 50 years ago and their admiration for NZ rugby was such that they modeled their club on the All Blacks. To this day they still play in black, even though it is oppressively hot in Corrientes; and we were treated to a stirring rendition of the haka by the youngsters in the junior club. (Aee my Facebook page for the video). Later, during some speeches the passion demonstrated by some of the founding members when talking about their club and New Zealand rugby made Brownie and I both very proud to be kiwis.
The smaller Cataratas Club in Iguazu, whilst not blessed with the numbers or talent of the bigger clubs in Buenos Aires still demonstrated that strong Argentinean passion for the game. Here we also came into contact with players who travelled from as far as Brazil and Paraguay to participate in our coaching sessions. We'll never forget the wonderful service from Pablo and his wife at their awesome La Rueda restaurant - a must visit place if you are ever in this part of the world.
Thanks to all those people who showed us such kindness - there is too many names to list here but the memories will last forever.
For those who might be looking to venture into this new frontier my advice would be to learn spanish and go with an open heart as the people are so warm and welcoming. It may not be the land of opportunity in a financial sense, but I'm certain that your spiritual well-being will be uplifted by the experience.
Monday, 12 March 2012
Argentina dreaming
Wow I cannot believe the end is coming soon with my trip to Argentina. So far we have worked with the amazing people at the Pucara club, Cataratas in wonderful Iguazu and have just finished up here with Monte Grande who are really a club on the rise. Tomorrow we set it to Corrientes for our last week.
The people here have been so warm and friendly I feel as if we have been here for years. While I was first here over ten years ago I must admit a second look has me hooked.
With Graham Henry overseeing the rugby here I am sure he will be impressed by the people and the strength of the club system. We worked with some talented young men who would not be out of place in NZ rugby and the coaches are some of the best and most dedicated I have seen.
I predict good things ahead for the Rugby in Argentina as it is driven by such passionate and wonderful people.
The people here have been so warm and friendly I feel as if we have been here for years. While I was first here over ten years ago I must admit a second look has me hooked.
With Graham Henry overseeing the rugby here I am sure he will be impressed by the people and the strength of the club system. We worked with some talented young men who would not be out of place in NZ rugby and the coaches are some of the best and most dedicated I have seen.
I predict good things ahead for the Rugby in Argentina as it is driven by such passionate and wonderful people.
Wednesday, 21 December 2011
In search of a guru
I will start this blog with a question. Why are there so very few "gurus" in coaching? We often read stories about "gurus” or “experts" in other fields; fields that vary to the extremes from rocket science to flower arranging. Yet to be called an “expert” coach is very rare! I have been very fortunate to have seen some of the best coaches around - each with their own different take on things and ways of delivery. But even with the level of success many of these “expert” coaches have, there is still a high level of criticism fired at them from others. I don't think this is the classic Kiwi "tall poppy" syndrome as I see it outside New Zealand as well. So what is it? Can no one be considered an expert in rugby coaching? Is it only acceptable if they are from another sport and not rugby? Many coaches out there have books by Wooden, Lombardi etc and quote excerpts from them as if reading from the bible! Could the problem lie within our own insecurities? Often if we are uncertain or feel we do not have all the facts we tend to dispel or attack the methods used by others. Human nature? Probably, but why is it so rampant in rugby? Egos maybe? Or the pressure to succeed? More than likely a combination of the two. With the limited opportunities out there the key indicator to the worth of a coach appears to be results and often with this guise of success comes an inflated image of self worth. Of all the coaches I have met at whatever level I have found very few who are just plain bad! Some have great content but deliver poorly while others put on a great show but fall flat on technical issues. Each one is different and should be seen as such. Coaches should be allowed to claim the “expert” tag if they can form a combination of the two and then learn from them. Be open to learn from technical and the tactical expertise, formulate your own style but still be true to who you are. Then you too may even consider yourself an expert!
It is no coincidence that the best coaches I have met happily share their methods. It is what we do with those methods that can shape us as coaches. So to be a coaching “guru”, continue to share and learn. Be willing to push the envelope and accept the odd defeat. The criticism will still been thrown your way but be safe in the knowledge that those throwing it will probably quickly move on to the next target as all they likely see are obstacles to their own success and not opportunities to learn from the "guru".
It is no coincidence that the best coaches I have met happily share their methods. It is what we do with those methods that can shape us as coaches. So to be a coaching “guru”, continue to share and learn. Be willing to push the envelope and accept the odd defeat. The criticism will still been thrown your way but be safe in the knowledge that those throwing it will probably quickly move on to the next target as all they likely see are obstacles to their own success and not opportunities to learn from the "guru".
Monday, 24 October 2011
Who else ......really!
There is so much to be said about the world cup final. Already the internet is full of those blasting the Ref or gloating about the victory. Praise should be heaped on both sides as it was a "real" final full of all the tension and thrills a final should have.
But to me there was one thing that really stuck in my mind. What other team in the world could go through four players in the 10 position? This is a key position and a team that is strong in this position will so often have success. But honestly four in a single tournament, three in the sudden death phase! unreal!
For this we must look at the insight shown by the coaching staff. Perhaps a lesson may be learnt in regards to consistency in coaching. John Mitchell was often remembered for his use of the word "journey". To me we have just witnessed a true rugby journey one travelled by the coaches, the players and most certainly the diehard fans.
Coaching is a tough game. Some are good, some are great, some just need a chance but with all of these the whole team needs to believe and then their journeys can begin.
But to me there was one thing that really stuck in my mind. What other team in the world could go through four players in the 10 position? This is a key position and a team that is strong in this position will so often have success. But honestly four in a single tournament, three in the sudden death phase! unreal!
For this we must look at the insight shown by the coaching staff. Perhaps a lesson may be learnt in regards to consistency in coaching. John Mitchell was often remembered for his use of the word "journey". To me we have just witnessed a true rugby journey one travelled by the coaches, the players and most certainly the diehard fans.
Coaching is a tough game. Some are good, some are great, some just need a chance but with all of these the whole team needs to believe and then their journeys can begin.
Wednesday, 19 October 2011
Coaching as a career - yeah right!
From the first moment I touched a rugby ball as a 3 year old playing mini rugby in rural New Zealand I was hooked. From then on my Mum and Dad would follow me to most matches and when I entered rep rugby that often meant very long road trips and cheap motels. Sadly my father never saw me play senior rugby and my mother was only informed of my exploits overseas by the odd newspaper clipping I would send her. Still, great times! Perhaps this is where I should have stopped. But oh no, I decided to coach!
Coaching allowed me to still feel the highs and lows of the team in battle. There was a familiarity in the smell of liniment and fresh washed jerseys. It wasn't the same as playing but the next best thing. The highs came from seeing the players develop and knowing I had a hand in their success. Their feedback fueled my desire as they worked hard to achieve. Then success came along and a little of the fun started to go. It wasn't success that took away the fun, it was the critics! All of a sudden people want to have a shot at someone doing well at something they love - and at that time something they did for free! Still the players and the great people I met along the way made it all worthwhile. So perhaps I should have stopped there! But oh no, I decided to specialise!
Firstly I was the "drills guy" and then I became the "skills coach". Both these roles brought me into contact with some fantastic people and my rugby knowledge grew with it. But wait! Suddenly no team, no liniment what's going on? It feels like my life is not mine to make mistakes and learn from anymore, I must be herded and guided to fit in with the plans of others.
So I reckon it's time to coach a team again. After all I have been exposed to some of the best coaches in the world and coached some great players and coaches from all around the world, so now I have a skill set even greater than before. But wait! I am not in the system! What system?? Who knew there was a system??? And that old adage from the past comes back to me "it's not what you know it's who you know" and more recently a new one I hear a lot "everyone is replaceable". These two phrases bloody irritate me so much. It is clear now that my success will not come from my knowledge, skill set, ability or even potential, but rather from working the system as it is supposed to work. I don't think I want to do that. If everyone feels replaceable they will work hard to do what pleases those in power but they will never have the freedom to express themselves and this is the area that great gains come from. I prefer the honest approach - who you know should not matter, judge people on their actions, words are cheap. Simple old fashioned things today I guess.
So if like me you read this as I once was, a wide eyed player trying to hang on to past glories who wants to coach. Then be prepared to lose your soul. In this world ruled by those who conform there is no room for a free thinker. I know there are many great coaches who now tend to their garden or hide in society rather than compromise their values. Perhaps a result of their free thinking and rugby throughout the world is a lot worse off because of this.
So if you want to advance say "yes" and do what is required. But if you want to be truly great be brave and challenge. If the success does not come from this then at least you can look into the eyes of those you love and feel true to yourself.
Coaching allowed me to still feel the highs and lows of the team in battle. There was a familiarity in the smell of liniment and fresh washed jerseys. It wasn't the same as playing but the next best thing. The highs came from seeing the players develop and knowing I had a hand in their success. Their feedback fueled my desire as they worked hard to achieve. Then success came along and a little of the fun started to go. It wasn't success that took away the fun, it was the critics! All of a sudden people want to have a shot at someone doing well at something they love - and at that time something they did for free! Still the players and the great people I met along the way made it all worthwhile. So perhaps I should have stopped there! But oh no, I decided to specialise!
Firstly I was the "drills guy" and then I became the "skills coach". Both these roles brought me into contact with some fantastic people and my rugby knowledge grew with it. But wait! Suddenly no team, no liniment what's going on? It feels like my life is not mine to make mistakes and learn from anymore, I must be herded and guided to fit in with the plans of others.
So I reckon it's time to coach a team again. After all I have been exposed to some of the best coaches in the world and coached some great players and coaches from all around the world, so now I have a skill set even greater than before. But wait! I am not in the system! What system?? Who knew there was a system??? And that old adage from the past comes back to me "it's not what you know it's who you know" and more recently a new one I hear a lot "everyone is replaceable". These two phrases bloody irritate me so much. It is clear now that my success will not come from my knowledge, skill set, ability or even potential, but rather from working the system as it is supposed to work. I don't think I want to do that. If everyone feels replaceable they will work hard to do what pleases those in power but they will never have the freedom to express themselves and this is the area that great gains come from. I prefer the honest approach - who you know should not matter, judge people on their actions, words are cheap. Simple old fashioned things today I guess.
So if like me you read this as I once was, a wide eyed player trying to hang on to past glories who wants to coach. Then be prepared to lose your soul. In this world ruled by those who conform there is no room for a free thinker. I know there are many great coaches who now tend to their garden or hide in society rather than compromise their values. Perhaps a result of their free thinking and rugby throughout the world is a lot worse off because of this.
So if you want to advance say "yes" and do what is required. But if you want to be truly great be brave and challenge. If the success does not come from this then at least you can look into the eyes of those you love and feel true to yourself.
Tuesday, 11 October 2011
Opinions are like………….
"Opinions are like arseholes, everyone has one!" This is a phrase I heard many years ago and it has stuck with me ever since. I guess it becomes even more relevant around a world cup when we hear the thoughts of every armchair critic from every corner of the globe. Hey, we have all done it "maybe we should have played X or maybe kicked wide to Y". For the most part this is all pretty harmless stuff - until it becomes public. When negative people with an axe to grind jump on talk back radio or online (oops I guess that's me!) and target an individual, that for me is not entertainment it's just plain mean. Whatever happened to blind patriotism? Just support your team and trust their coaches to do the job. Before opening your mouth ask yourself "could I do better?" the correct answer is NO because if you could you would have stood up long ago and put yourself in the running for that job. Or if you are a player you would have run the extra lap, lifted that extra weight and put the extra skill work in to give you a chance of being there.
When the teams run out for the semi finals this weekend let's not criticise or throw out crazy "what if" statements. Let's just get behind them and understand that each one of them are doing their utmost to perform. John Eales had the nickname "nobody" because to his teammates "nobody's perfect" but I am sure even he would have had moments that he thought he could have done something a little better.
Hey it's fine to have an opinion, just don't be an opinionated arsehole!
Thursday, 29 September 2011
Battle of inches
There has been a wonderful intensity in the matches seen so far in the world cup. Last night I watched the Georgians smash into the Romanians and vice versa for 80 minutes. The same with USA v Italy, Canada v Japan and as for the Pacific Island nations I would expect no less!
What appears to me missing are things like evasion in contact, variation in attack around the ruck area (mind you Georgia showed some nice touches last night) and some form of width to vary the point of attack and hopefully begin to break down the defence systems.
As has been said many times "defence wins championships" and I guess I have to reluctantly agree but PLEASE do not forget attack! I have been to, and run many defence sessions and apart from a few subtle philosophies they are all pretty similar. But the real joy in coaching for me comes from creative attack systems. By this I do not mean robotic pre programmed lines but finely orchestrated smooth maneuvers that cause chaos in the defence and create options for the ball carrier and those around them.
I understand the need for solid set piece and good "go forward" to bring attack into the game but I think more than a few teams have missed an opportunity to move up the ranks by having little in attack.
Lets see what the rest of the tournament has to offer.
What appears to me missing are things like evasion in contact, variation in attack around the ruck area (mind you Georgia showed some nice touches last night) and some form of width to vary the point of attack and hopefully begin to break down the defence systems.
As has been said many times "defence wins championships" and I guess I have to reluctantly agree but PLEASE do not forget attack! I have been to, and run many defence sessions and apart from a few subtle philosophies they are all pretty similar. But the real joy in coaching for me comes from creative attack systems. By this I do not mean robotic pre programmed lines but finely orchestrated smooth maneuvers that cause chaos in the defence and create options for the ball carrier and those around them.
I understand the need for solid set piece and good "go forward" to bring attack into the game but I think more than a few teams have missed an opportunity to move up the ranks by having little in attack.
Lets see what the rest of the tournament has to offer.
Monday, 26 September 2011
Can't we all get along
Just a quick one today for all my loyal followers - oh ok then follower!!!
There has been a real hype up in this world cup over the whole hate the Aussie thing. This gets up my nose a bit! I have many great Aussie mates and like a lot of Kiwis I spent a large chunk of my life living there. I think this has really been driven hard by the media and then fueled by a few out there who are more jealous over the lifestyles their family are living in Oz than any real hatred for the country or the people!
The media and those people mentioned above drive us into liking some pretty crap reality shows, thinking it's OK to loose as long as you have a good time and think that a perfect life is all about the latest Ab machine, white teeth and a home that smells like spring flowers !!!
Lets just enjoy the Rugby a cold beer and stories about how good we all once were!
There has been a real hype up in this world cup over the whole hate the Aussie thing. This gets up my nose a bit! I have many great Aussie mates and like a lot of Kiwis I spent a large chunk of my life living there. I think this has really been driven hard by the media and then fueled by a few out there who are more jealous over the lifestyles their family are living in Oz than any real hatred for the country or the people!
The media and those people mentioned above drive us into liking some pretty crap reality shows, thinking it's OK to loose as long as you have a good time and think that a perfect life is all about the latest Ab machine, white teeth and a home that smells like spring flowers !!!
Lets just enjoy the Rugby a cold beer and stories about how good we all once were!
Sunday, 18 September 2011
Upset - No, Passion - Yes
The World Cup just keeps getting better as the games roll by. Really annoyed I missed the Argentina game as they are a team I like to watch to see how they will fit into what was called the "TriNations".
South Africa were pretty clinical against Fiji and I think many who predicted an upset were far from the mark. The big hard running Fijians we must remember were running up against just as big and as hard running Africans!
As for the Aussie v Ireland game. What a cracker! But once again those who called this an upset must remember that Ireland is a tier one nation. If the excitement is to live on in our game then these sort of results must continue. Passion is a wonderful thing and when the AB's went down to the Aussies recently you could say they "out passioned" us. Last night it was the turn of the Irish. Must admit I felt for James Slipper who came on the face a great Irish pack with Cian Healy particularly impressive.
Lets not forget this is the premier Rugby tournament in the world and every teams wants to put their best on the paddock. Every game should be a battle and I am sure that is how every rugby supporter in the world would want it.
Pretty eager to see the Samoa v Wales game today. I was very impressed with Wales in their first match and much like Ireland their passion was wonderful.
South Africa were pretty clinical against Fiji and I think many who predicted an upset were far from the mark. The big hard running Fijians we must remember were running up against just as big and as hard running Africans!
As for the Aussie v Ireland game. What a cracker! But once again those who called this an upset must remember that Ireland is a tier one nation. If the excitement is to live on in our game then these sort of results must continue. Passion is a wonderful thing and when the AB's went down to the Aussies recently you could say they "out passioned" us. Last night it was the turn of the Irish. Must admit I felt for James Slipper who came on the face a great Irish pack with Cian Healy particularly impressive.
Lets not forget this is the premier Rugby tournament in the world and every teams wants to put their best on the paddock. Every game should be a battle and I am sure that is how every rugby supporter in the world would want it.
Pretty eager to see the Samoa v Wales game today. I was very impressed with Wales in their first match and much like Ireland their passion was wonderful.
Thursday, 15 September 2011
Go the boys
Well yesterday was a pretty good day for the Canadians. Great to see Phil Mackenzie score the match winning try. Felt a bit for Fetu'u Vainikolo and Thomas Palu who were the other IRANZ boys on show in that match. Better news for Anthony Perenise and Eliota Fuimaono in Samoa's win over Namibia.
Watching these boys in action is a real buzz. For many it does not seem that long ago that they were these wide eyed kids with the rugby world awaiting them. From Frans Steyn to Israel Dagg or Mike Petri to James Slipper. However their teams are rated in the pecking order of the day their achievements are nontheless something for them to be terribly proud of.
USA play Russia today and once again a host of familiar faces will run out to "live the dream".
Go Boys!
Watching these boys in action is a real buzz. For many it does not seem that long ago that they were these wide eyed kids with the rugby world awaiting them. From Frans Steyn to Israel Dagg or Mike Petri to James Slipper. However their teams are rated in the pecking order of the day their achievements are nontheless something for them to be terribly proud of.
USA play Russia today and once again a host of familiar faces will run out to "live the dream".
Go Boys!
Wednesday, 14 September 2011
Eyes on the next level
An interesting day ahead with some good match ups. Pretty keen to take a first look at Samoa who look strong on paper. Great to see Anthony Perenise in the line up who went through IRANZ. This is a very tough pool and with Wales playing so well against South Africa the other sides will have to fire to knock one of them over.
I was particularly impressed with Wales. They played an attractive brand of rugby much like I remember from them as a boy. With some hard straight running backs, a well balanced 10, a ball hunting 7 and a strong pack they would be disappointed to bow out so early.
Canada vs Tonga should be a good battle. This holds a fair bit of interest to me as I spent time playing and later coaching in Canada. A wonderful country and some great people! This is a place I would love to return to and coach again, I was pretty green as coach on my first visit and I have the desire to return and redeem myself a little. 20 years more experience must count for something! Will look out for Phil Mackenzie in the centres, who I have also worked with on two IRANZ courses. Plus I understand there may be some players from the Cowichan area on Vancouver Island who will no doubt be strongly supported by the wonderful people of that area. Watch out for sideline photographer Caity McCulloch who has a pretty good rugby pedigree herself!
I know very little about Georgia and Scotland did not set the world on fire in their opener against Romania. So will be looking for some improvement there. This could have been a great pool if it included one of the Pacific Island teams.
Keen to watch USA vs Russia tomorrow I would have loved to have been there. Would be great to catch up to the boys in the Eagles who I have been fortunate to work with over the years.
Remember - The edge is in the detail!
I was particularly impressed with Wales. They played an attractive brand of rugby much like I remember from them as a boy. With some hard straight running backs, a well balanced 10, a ball hunting 7 and a strong pack they would be disappointed to bow out so early.
Canada vs Tonga should be a good battle. This holds a fair bit of interest to me as I spent time playing and later coaching in Canada. A wonderful country and some great people! This is a place I would love to return to and coach again, I was pretty green as coach on my first visit and I have the desire to return and redeem myself a little. 20 years more experience must count for something! Will look out for Phil Mackenzie in the centres, who I have also worked with on two IRANZ courses. Plus I understand there may be some players from the Cowichan area on Vancouver Island who will no doubt be strongly supported by the wonderful people of that area. Watch out for sideline photographer Caity McCulloch who has a pretty good rugby pedigree herself!
I know very little about Georgia and Scotland did not set the world on fire in their opener against Romania. So will be looking for some improvement there. This could have been a great pool if it included one of the Pacific Island teams.
Keen to watch USA vs Russia tomorrow I would have loved to have been there. Would be great to catch up to the boys in the Eagles who I have been fortunate to work with over the years.
Remember - The edge is in the detail!
Monday, 12 September 2011
World Cup
Not even sure anyone will see my first post so I will make it a very short one.
Rugby world cup has hit New Zealand and in this first weekend we have seen some wonderful games. The skill levels have been pretty good but probably over-shadowed by raw determination, particularly by the less fancied teams. On that note I must say I object to the word "minnows" when referring to these teams outside the "big time". This is their world cup as well and each team should always have the attitude to push for success no matter the odds.
As I said this would be short. Let me know your thoughts on the skills displayed at the cup.
Rugby world cup has hit New Zealand and in this first weekend we have seen some wonderful games. The skill levels have been pretty good but probably over-shadowed by raw determination, particularly by the less fancied teams. On that note I must say I object to the word "minnows" when referring to these teams outside the "big time". This is their world cup as well and each team should always have the attitude to push for success no matter the odds.
As I said this would be short. Let me know your thoughts on the skills displayed at the cup.
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