St Charles College has been garnering attention in the rugby arena, demonstrating their strength and promising outcomes at the recent Standard Bank Grey High Rugby Festival. The driving force behind their success lies in their new Director of Rugby, Craig Dwyer.
Drawing from his extensive coaching experience in New Zealand and Chile, Dwyer brings a fresh perspective to the game. When comparing rugby in New Zealand to South Africa, he emphasized the focus on running rugby and playing an attractive brand of the game in New Zealand.
What changes has Dwyer implemented at St Charles College? His main focus is on nurturing a rugby culture within the school, fostering a love for the game and refining the necessary skills for success. Dwyer’s approach centres around refining fundamental techniques such as running, catching, and passing, and placing significant emphasis on fitness and conditioning to create a team capable of enduring 100-minute games effortlessly.
A key aspect of Dwyer’s strategy involves steering clear of over-coaching structure and systems. Instead, he prioritises decision-making and support play to ensure that the team has multiple options on every carry. This approach promotes a more fluid 15-man game where each player has the liberty to think and act on the field.
Dwyer’s approach to the game is not just theoretical. The achievements of St Charles College on the field mirror his philosophy, with their swift ball movement, utilization of the width of the field, and masterful ball control leaving a lasting impression. The focus is not solely on wins; it is about instilling a love for the game and equipping players with the necessary skills for success beyond their school years.
When observing a match at St Charles College, their philosophy is evident in action – multiple options, fluid ball movement, and a focus on a 15-man game. While individual talents such as fullback Salmaan Mohammed and scrumhalf Matthew Fick shine through, the team’s cohesion, teamwork, and game strategy truly sets them apart, a testament to Dwyer’s vision for the sport.
As Dwyer continues to revolutionize rugby at St Charles College, the team’s success is on an upward trajectory, and their distinctive style of play is likely to establish them as a formidable force in the rugby scene. Despite the challenges and setbacks, the team remains dedicated to the process, demonstrating unwavering commitment to their craft.
In conclusion, the rise of rugby at St Charles College is a testament to Dwyer’s dedication to cultivating a vibrant and effective style of play. His passion for the game and unwavering commitment to the team’s success undeniably propels St Charles College to new heights in the realm of rugby.