Page 5 - BRFC NEWS SPRING 2018

What were your playing highlights?
My first full cap for Wales will always be right up there in 2008 against South Africa at the age of 27, this came relatively late in my career and I really thought my chance had gone. I had been in the Welsh set up from the age of 21 where I was often overlooked as a youngster and not selected. My main recollections of this time are of often being frustrated, not just because I was not getting picked, but mainly because I did not feel that I was getting what I needed from the management team to develop as an international player.
Then I guess that the pinnacle of every British rugby players career is obviously being selected for a Lions Tour. I was lucky enough to go to South Africa in 2009 and played 7 games on that tour. This was a great experience full of fantastic memories that I will never forget.
What has been the biggest change in the grassroots game in the past 10 years?
Having only returned and got involved with grass roots rugby in the last few years it is pretty clear to me that the boys playing at our level now are definitely fitter, stronger, better organised and more skilful. This is probably down to access to improved coaching in Colleges, Universities, Clubs and Regions for the players as they grow up and develop. Many Clubs are also helping by investing in
qualified coaches to help out with their Senior sides which is definitely helping. The boys are also exposed to or able to pick up on training methods used by professional clubs and take them back to their clubs and it all helps. Local Clubs throughout Wales are continuously trying to improve their facilities and pitches which makes it easier to attract new players and makes for a better game.
How would you 'sell' Rugby to someone who is new to the game?
Rugby is a sport which is based on a number of values that will be useful to you throughout your life. It teaches about the values of discipline, team work, respect, hard work, fair play and trust in each other. It provides you with a number of the skills you need for life. It also teaches you how to analyse things, both good and bad. On top of this rugby also provides a great opportunity to meet people, have fun and enjoyment and travel, whatever level you play at.
Who or what inspired you to get into coaching?
I cannot really single out any one individual as I have been lucky to work with lots of good coaches and learnt something from them all. Having 13 different clubs I have learnt something different from every coach!
I have experienced good and bad things from many coaches and these lessons will
hopefully shape me as I get more experience in coaching. Something I learnt early on is the importance of man management, without this from my time in school, I may not have had the opportunities I was given. I am grateful for this and will make sure that I always look at the individual player and identify what help and support they need to develop as a player.
What advice you would give people wanting to become a coach?
My advice would be to:
• Get involved in a local club, many Clubs are always looking for volunteers
• Give it a go and don’t be afraid of making mistakes
• Get your qualifications sorted out as early as possible
• If you are working with children make sure you make it enjoyable for them focus on helping them improve their skills
Arm around the shoulder or hairdryer treatment?
I am definitely the arm around shoulder type of coach. From experience the hair drier treatment never worked for me and only really put me off my game!
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BRFC News
SPRING 2018
05