Core values key for winning Colt season

The Stratford Rugby and Sports Club Under 21's team, the New World Colts, are gearing up for a season of great rugby, says coach Allan 'Rolly' Rowlands.

Rolly, who is coaching the team for the first time, will be working with two other team coaches Mark Petrie and Paul Martin along with team manager Matt Stewart.

Rolly has coached the Central Rugby Under 18's team for the past three years.

"It was great working with the high school players but it was time for me to take the next step," he says.

He plans to bring some of the core values he taught to the Central players.

"My goal this year is to develop each of the players individually to reach their potential and get them working together as a solid team."

He adds that the most important thing to him is that the players are honest and respectful to not only to the coaches but each other.

Manager Matt Stewart agrees.

"We want to help develop these young players into strong rugby players as well as respectable young men, and give them skills that can be applied on and off the field".

Rolly is looking forward to working with the other coaches this year.

"Mark worked with the team last year so he has a good background in regards to the strengths of the returning players." Although Paul is new to coaching the New World Colts this year, he has coaching experience, developed while working with the Taranaki Under 20's team.

Paul has always had a soft spot for Stratford and will not only be a mentor to the players but to the other coaches as well, Rolly says.

All the coaches look forward to working with the New World Colts this year and are hoping to work closely with the Senior A and B teams. Giving the senior players the opportunity to mentor the New World Colts and give the younger skilled players the opportunity to play with the senior teams.