Inside the Squidge Rugby brain: Coaching, analysis and rugby geekery with Will Owen
Aug 30, 2024
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Will Owen, one half of the Squidge Rugby duo, is a passionate analyst and coach in the rugby world. He shares insights on how Squidge Rugby began and the journey of translating complex game strategies for fans. Will discusses the balance between analysis and coaching, the role of revenue in content creation, and the influence of top coaches in innovating the game. He also reflects on memorable matches and the unique position of being both a player and analyst, emphasizing how this dual role informs his coaching style.
Squidge Rugby gained popularity through unique match analysis and engaging commentary, which resonated with audiences during key events like the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Will's coaching journey evolved from initial struggles to a focus on building player relationships and adapting methods for various age groups.
The podcast discusses the balance between traditional strategies and innovation in coaching, highlighting the adaptability necessary for success in competitive rugby.
Deep dives
Upcoming Webinars for Rugby Coaches
Webinars are scheduled for the second Wednesday of each month, lasting 30 minutes. These events will cover a variety of topics aimed at enhancing coaching skills, such as designing effective tackling programs, boosting confidence in contact situations, and employing game-based strategies for training success. Additionally, innovative training ideas and techniques to improve focus during sessions will be shared. Coaches are encouraged to visit the related website to learn more about these opportunities and engage in discussions that can elevate their coaching approach.
The Formation of Squidge Rugby
The YouTube channel Squidge Rugby was founded by Robbie Owen in 2017, initially as a solo venture before Will Owen joined him to enhance content creation. The channel gained traction during the 2019 Rugby World Cup, leading to full-time commitments for both brothers. Will contributed by providing analysis and insights remotely while Robbie traveled to Japan for matches. Their success can be attributed to their dedication, extensive coverage of rugby games, and the ability to draw in an engaged audience with unique commentary and perspectives on the sport.
Innovative Analysis Techniques
In their analysis process, the brothers utilize a combination of traditional methods and digital tools to break down games. Robbie prefers pen and paper, while Will opts for Google Docs to maintain an organized record of insights and patterns observed during matches. They aim to enjoy the game on first viewing, reserving analysis for later, which helps them maintain a balance between their work and passion. This approach allows them to recognize recurring plays and opportunities, enriching the content they create for their audience.
Coaching Philosophy and Evolution
Will shares his journey into coaching, highlighting the initial struggles of managing younger players and developing his leadership style. A turning point came when he was encouraged to lead a training session, which improved his confidence and connection with the players. Over time, he learned to focus on building relationships and adapting his coaching methods to better suit the players' needs. This evolution has allowed him to transition to coaching older groups while implementing structured training and teaching complex strategies gradually.
Current Trends in Rugby Coaching
The conversation touches on the balance between innovation and traditional coaching in rugby, particularly how coaches often adapt strategies based on recent performances and historical data. Will notes that some teams rely heavily on defensive tactics while others are experimenting with offensive plays to create unpredictability in their game. The landscape is shifting, with several teams utilizing diverse player roles to maximize their efficiency on the field. This adaptability is essential for teams to thrive in a competitive environment, particularly during international tournaments.