Ron,
First of all I want to thank you for the great opportunity of attending the coaching clinic with Bob Dwyer and Mike Penistone. The chance to receive coaching advice from a World cup winning coach was truly invaluable.
To have two of the best coaches in the world explaining that the way we are coaching is not only incorrect but detrimental to our chances of winning was a true eye-opener. The session were fun and very informative and the stories about big names failing at simple drills put a lot in perspective.
For the Texas Union to take the initiative and run such a high profile clinic is a testament to you and your Union. For other players and coaches to fail to see the golden opportunity that was given to them is a sad reflection on rugby in the USA.
I don’t really have any negative comments about the weekend, other than what we discussed. The number of players needs to be increased for both the players and coaches benefits. A more precise end time, although I appreciate that it was shortened due to heat and numbers, for those reserving flights etc.
The amount of time and access we had with these coaches was unprecedented and to be able to watch the Australia game with a pint of Guinness and listen to Bob will be a favorite rugby memory for a long time!
Again I hope you continue with these events and allow me the opportunity to attend, so maybe we can meet in the playoffs and have a truly open free flowing game. I also hope the collaborations between our Unions continue, especially with respect to helping fund and offer travel grants to allow coaches of all levels to attend.
Your thankfully,
C. H.
St Louis Rambler Rugby Club