As a result the main benefactors of the fiasco are the players; they have grown steadily and purposely as individuals and as a team over the season. The progression on the playing field has been down to hard work and good coaching. I believe Brett planted the seeds of confidence and commitment, when he left Dave took over and nurtured them by adding pride and passion to help them grow.
It is not a coincidence that the club has made massive strides forward since Dave took over the helm, as a player Dave frequently put his body on the line for his beloved Cov, he led his team upwards and onwards from the front, he inspired the will to win. The players are now showing the same enthusiasm, they are becoming mentally and physically strong and are no longer tagged as pushovers.
I am not surprised in Dave’s transition from player to coach; he has carried out his duties with dignity and integrity. But he has not done this alone credit must go to his backroom staff, especially Tony Gulliver. Unquestionably Dave and Tony are Coventry through and through, they are not dissimilar to Martin Johnson, they radiate respect, and they demand pride and passion from every player that has the honour of wearing the blue and white shirt.
I genuinely hope that the next Director of Rugby has the same commitment, that he possesses the same qualities as Dave and Tony, if he does, next season could be very interesting, we have the nucleus of a good team with the addition of some street wise personnel we could surprise a lot of people and gain back some of the respect we lost over the last twelve months.
Lets all hope that the next appointment is the right one.
Have a wonderful summer...
Unofficial Coventry Rugby.
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