A Day with Eddie Jones

A big shout out to our Year 10 Leader and PE Teacher, Mrs Cooper, as she tells us of her great experience with Eddie Jones. we are so proud of her. Having arrived into work I checked my e mails as I always do and was left pinching myself after seeing one from the R F U inviting me down to London to spend a day coaching in front of Eddie Jones, the England Rugby coach. My initial instinct was “why me, how on earth have I received this”? To say it was unexpected was an understatement, and it took me a few weeks to actually fully comprehend that I was actually going to do this. The thought filled me with dread although I was quietly excited. Boarding the train I was full of apprehension not knowing what to fully expect, however after meeting up with my fellow coaches on the Monday evening, I was assured we were all in the same boat and were all nervously excited for the next day. We were split into 4 coaching groups of 3 and had to plan a session to deliver to the London Irish Ace academy lads. This was a challenge in itself as each coach has their own individuality when delivering a session so working with people who I had only just met could have been perceived as a challenge although it was far from this. The session was planned and roles allocated ready to be delivered the following day. I recall Eddie walking through the doors at 10.30 as the place went silent, introductions were made and everyone was made to feel at ease. Our first task with Eddie was Q & A, although I’m not able to divulge too much from this (top secret) he did allow us an insight into his own coaching philosophy. Fundamentals were the key message and if these are right then every player will thrive and succeed. So, passing and catching movement patterns need to be developed not just from an early age but during every training session. Onwards we went to the pitch, where my coaching team had to wait for 3 sessions to conclude before we delivered our masterpiece. Some would say leave the best till last, the nerves were definitely kicking in now but quickly subsided once we started our delivery. The 20 minutes passed like a whirlwind and we were left thinking is that it? Eddie’s feedback was extremely positive (I’d actually forgotten he was watching me coach during the delivery) and he said that it looked like we had coached together for years and not just having met each other the night before. He questioned us on what we thought went well and what we could have done differently. Reflection is a key to improving and I can honestly say I am still reflecting on the experience. All in all it was a fantastic experience never to be forgotten. It confirmed that rugby truly does unite people and the rugby family will continue to grow and strengthen

Year 7 High Borrans Trip

Pyramid Music Festival

Rising Sun Park Run

Last Year's Runners