In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob talks to Head of Athletic Performance and recent World Cup winner with the Springboks, Andy Edwards. He emphasizes the importance of creating a close-knit team atmosphere, much like a family, where hard work and high standards are the norm. Edwards talks about his start at Saracens before moving onto the Springboks, and how maintaining consistency, along with making small but impactful tweaks in training, contributed significantly to their success.
Andy gives a masterclass in balancing data-driven decision-making with gut instincts, emphasizing the importance of understanding players beyond mere numbers. He shares insights into the pressures and exhilarations of leading the Springboks post-World Cup victory and the challenges of maintaining success in the international arena.
Central to the Springboks' World Cup victory were the strategic adjustments in conditioning, focusing on specific rugby positions, and trust-building through small-sided games. Edwards highlights the crucial role of clear communication, mutual respect, and a deep understanding of the game. He reflects on the sense of pride and the collective hard work that culminated in this triumph, marking a 19-year journey filled with unity and commitment to their country.
This episode isn't just for those who work in rugby but for anyone wanting to get an insight into a World Cup winning culture.
Main talking points:
Agility training, problems with change of direction testing & game speed with Ian Jeffreys (Coach Educator & Academic Director, Setanta College)
#Bitesize - Understanding the menstrual cycle to optimise performance with Georgie Bruinvels
Gaining mobility and flexibility for sports performance with Vernon Griffith (Performance Coach)
#Bitesize - Benefits and downsides to eccentric training with John Wagle
Warm ups and cool downs; maximising our impact as coaches with Rett Larson (Strength & Conditioning Coach at German Women’s Volleyball Team)
#Bitesize - Recommendations for training athletes during growth spurts with Sean Cumming
Deciphering, understanding and optimising athlete movement efficiency with Matt Jordan
#Bitesize -The underpinning characteristics of speed with Stu McMillan
Creating a framework to maximise jumping and landing training with athletes with Dana Agar-Newman and Jeremy Sheppard
#Bitesize - Choosing the most appropriate recovery methods with Robin Thorpe
Speed, agility and social media gurus; reflections from 53 years coaching with Vern Gambetta (Coach and Founder of GAIN Network)
#Bitesize - Assessing and managing athletes through an ACL rehabilitation with Enda King
Creating and developing a high school strength and conditioning programme with Joey Berles (JJ Pearce High School)
#Bitesize - The function of tendons and how to best train them with Keith Baar
Enhancing change of direction speed and agility in the real world with Molly Binetti (University of South Carolina)
#Bitesize - What makes a good S&C coach with Eddie Jones
Nordic hamstring exercise; can we trust the evidence and should we use it (?) with Rod Whiteley (Physiotherapist at Aspetar)
#Bitesize - Programming plyometrics and jump training with Boo Schexnayder
Anaerobic speed reserve; maximising training prescription (part 2) with Gareth Sandford (Physiologist, Canada Athletics)
#Bitesize - How to programme isometric training with athletes with Alex Natera
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