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:
CBD for athletes: Is it safe and what are the potential benefits for recovery, sleep and brain injuries with Graeme Close
#Bitesize - Developing deceleration ability in the gym and on the field with Tom Dos’Santos and Alistair McBurnie
Helping athlete get fast with speed profiling: Is it a technical or physical adjustment that is needed (?) with Ryan Grubbs
#Bitesize - Managing, monitoring and preventing hip and groin injuries with Ed Gannon
A guide to career longevity - Lessons from 32 years as a strength coach with Joe Kenn
#Bitesize - Recovery in the NFL with Dave Hamilton
What speed training methods should team sport coaches take from track & field (and what they shouldn’t)? with Cam Josse
#Bitesize - The force vector myth with Dan Cleather
Isometric training; Assessments, progressions and regressions, and programming for different populations with Alex Natera
#Bitesize - Choosing the right plyometric exercises for your athletes with Jeremy Sheppard and Dana Agar-Newman
Choosing the right wearable tech for your athletes and which is worth the investment, Whoop or Oura(?) with Sian Allen
#Bitesize - Maintaining shoulder health with athletes and the ASH test with Ben Ashworth
Building a rehab running framework to maximise performance and minimise re-injury with Simon Harries
#Bitesize - What is blood flow restriction training and how can it be used in rehab with Chris Gaviglio
Building a genuine network and expanding your responsibilities to make yourself indispensable with Donnell Boucher
#Bitesize - Why and how to use obstacle courses with youth athletes with Jeremy Frisch
Research in real-life: Unravelling what injury prevention strategies really works in practice with Nicol van Dyk
#Bitesize - Identifying and fixing common sprint technique errors in team sport athletes with Cam Josse
The Nordic hamstring exercise; are they safe and effective for athletes (?) with Franco Impellizzeri
#Bitesize - Using Frans Bosch’s methods with Australia Rugby with John Pryor
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