I was at "the swamp" on Saturday talking to a few of the Scots parents who had boys playing in the 1's and2's. Lots of talk re the head coach and occasional teacher being shown the door if they do not win the title this year. Lots of discontent amongst the boys and parents around the rugby program and the culture or lack thereof. It was evident with the #12 not taking part in the school song with the team or in the sheds after the game. Ignored behavior is approved behavior. Congratulations to TSC on the win, we looked the best team for most of the game however couldn't close it out.
I worked at TSC during the change from staff coaching the 1st XV to the induction of professional coaches who can teach a bit. While some have varying teaching loads given to them (I beleive Smith is on a full load) they are employed mainly to bring in the premierships. Before this it was hard working staff like Cooper, Graham, Inches who all taught full time and coached as well as they could with the cattle they had. First coach brought in was Cutler, but he wasn't supported with "new cattle". He did though help all teams, even the Prep. Additional Staff were then brought into find these elusive beasts and lure them to the pastures of Bellevue. It was too late for Cutler and he was shown the door after two seasons. Then Lambert arrived. Under his direction he hired Blackburn and the College focused entirely on the 1st XV. Development across the school lagged and hence the seed of discontent grew. Even former students of mine, and now players in the 2nd XV, spoke to me during their glory years that they felt ignored, just reserves for the 1st XV. Parents started to ask questions why only ONE team beat Joeys (1st XV) out of 17 games in 2012. I am told rugby across the school has improved which is good for all.
To the credit of Scots they did inspire other schools to lift their game in regards to size, strength and speed. They led the way and made AAGPS schoolboy rugby quasi-professional (leave that alone) It was only when other school started to match or use other tactics did Scots come back to the field. Plus, the "releasing" of two key sports staff at Scots helped (This was over the basketball scandal.)
In short, nothing new hear. Same old Scots, same old issues.
Now lets hear from Subbie and Rob.....I have poked the bear!