Springbok coach Peter de Villiers is consulting with all the stakeholders to ensure his players can perform at their peak potential.
Whilst Springbok coaches have consulted with and Guru Sports Scientist Professor Tim Noakes in the past, his advice hasn’t always been adhered to.
It appears Peter de Villiers is not prepared to run his players into the ground and wants to work with the provinces and South African rugby public to ensure he manages his assets carefully.
This sort of consulting has long been overdue, and for those who criticise de Villiers, one cannot fault his thoroughness and willingness to explore avenues previous Springbok coaches have suggested but never implemented.
Whilst all the players have had a minimum 4 week break off-season break and should be primed for a strong 2010 season, de Villiers is planning to ensure his top Springboks are at their peak for the 2011 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, but also to ensure they are well managed in 2010.
“It’s the right time now to be considering 2011. I want recommendations by rugby unions because we have to work together in the best interests of the players. My job is to consult with all the stakeholders – there is many more than just SA Rugby. There are unions, sponsors, suite holders. There are also agreements with SANZAR that need to be honoured” said de Villiers.
He continued, “I want to see what the unions have to say. What is easy for the Lions and Cheetahs may be difficult for the Blue Bulls and Sharks. I sincerely believe that the unions will make decisions in the interests of the players and SA Rugby. As soon as I have finished consulting with the unions, I will go to the sponsors. The findings of the report will be made public as the public are also stakeholders.”
It shows a great maturity to want to make the results public and acknowledge just how important the fans are to this process. Whilst the fans want to see the top players every week, I believe we are also sensitive to ensuring players are not run into the ground and are rested adequately.
de Villiers also thanked the Super 14 sides who are co-operating to keep players fresh during 2010.
“Rest is the component that will be very important in the discussions (with unions). I know some of them have already cancelled Monday training sessions. It’s a step in the right direction as it is 14 weeks of Mondays, which amounts to two weeks’ rest” said De Villiers.
On Sunday the contracted Springboks were lectured by Professor Tim Noakes in Cape Town about managing themselves.
“The general theme was that they need to cut back this year and do everything next year. South Africa’s players cannot expect to be competitive in the World Cup unless they play less” said Noakes.
However whilst players are mindful of rest, they also hate to sit on the sidelines and worry about losing form and their rhythm. The provinces that pay their salary also want to see them play as many games as possible which can make it hard for players to rest, especially during important games.
However it is exciting to see South African adopting a more professional attitude and taking the advice of the Sports Science community. I am sure it can only lead to better performances and a winning Springbok side!
