More than 150 coaches have come together to learn from some of the finest coaching minds in the world as part of the inaugural Youth Rugby Coaches Forum at Nudgee.
The forum was designed by Director of Rugby at Nudgee College, Sean Graham, with the goal of building collaboration and connections between coaches from all levels.
“I was blown away by how open all of our presenters were in sharing their rugby IP. It was so clear how passionate and genuine everyone in the room was about youth rugby” Graham said.
“I hope that this event is only the beginning of our journey to developing youth rugby in Australia, and eventually around the world.
"Following this forum, we have a responsibility to try and action some of the key topics that came out of the weekend. Can we now look at how to embody co-opetition in our actions? Can we begin to work towards events that everyone in rugby knows would be a success, such as national schools and club competitions, but require that collaboration and co-opetition?”
The program saw the likes of rugby league legend Wayne Bennett, Wallabies coach Dave Rennie and Reds head coach Brad Thorn present on all levels of the game as attendees were encouraged to break out in 'think tanks' to work with like-minded coaches in their areas of interest.
Along with this, Wallabies defence coach Matt Taylor, Queensland Academy coach Dale Roberson, Junior Wallabies coach Ben Mowen, and Norths Rugby Colts Coach Dan Ritchie were amongst the on-field coaching demonstrations across the weekend program.
“It was a real privilege to be involved in the inaugural College Youth rugby coaches forum held at Nudgee College," Taylor said.
"It was a great opportunity for aspiring coaches to gain knowledge from the presenters and build connections with other coaches in the field.
"It was a great initiative by Sean and hope it continues for years to come."
