Rugby Coaching Blog | Professional Rugby Advice & Coaching

Congratulations to Andy Robinson, who is the new Scottish head coach. I have known Andy for many years, and he was one of the first contributors to the International Rugby Technical Journal, formerly known as Rugby Coach Newsletter.

As a player he was extremely competitive, but also thoughtful and a people person. His teaching background meant he could understand players on many different levels.

Of course in the world of top class coaching, you cannot always win. He was successful with Bath and then as England’s forward coach, transforming the pack into world beaters for the likes of Wilkinson to kick England to glory. His two years in full charge of England were fraught with difficulties and he was sacked in 2006.

However he has bounced back to revitalise Magners League side Edinburgh. They were sad to see him go and it will interesting to watch Scotland progress. Under Frank Hadden they did make strides, but my sense is that Robinson will bring a winning edge, like he did when he first arrived with England.