A tiny Lancashire village has become a breeding ground for England's top rugby coaches, and it's not a coincidence. But why this place? And what's the secret to their success?
The Rugby Coaching Factory
England's rugby coaching staff is brimming with talent from a small corner of Lancashire, a region that has consistently produced exceptional coaches and players. This autumn, as the team prepares at Twickenham, the Lancastrian influence is undeniable, with three senior coaches—Steve Borthwick, Richard Wigglesworth, and Lee Blackett—all hailing from this rugby-rich area. But it doesn't stop there; the skills coach, Kevin Sinfield, and Byron McGuigan, who coaches the back three, also have strong Lancashire connections.
A Rugby Heartland
This particular part of Lancashire, stretching from Preston to Blackpool, has a rich rugby heritage. The area just inland from the Fylde coast boasts a network of well-run clubs and schools passionate about rugby union. Mark Nelson, Fylde's director of rugby, attributes this success to the region's top-quality rugby teachers. Coaches like Brian Ashton, Dick Greenwood, and Des Seabrook have left a lasting impact, shaping the skills and mindset of many future England stars.
The Coaches' Journey
Steve Borthwick, a former England lock, attended Hutton Grammar, a state school with a strong rugby focus due to Ashton's early influence. Richard Wigglesworth and Lee Blackett, both 42, attended rival private schools in the area and have risen quickly through the coaching ranks. Wigglesworth, a former scrum-half with an impressive playing career, and Blackett, a determined and intelligent player, now form a dynamic coaching duo.
The Power of Education
The success of this Lancashire coaching cohort is not just a matter of talent; it's also about the quality of their early education. Teachers in this region have a knack for creating environments where talent can flourish. As Nelson points out, these coaches had excellent teachers who understood how to bring out the best in their students. This educational foundation has been instrumental in their coaching success.
A Controversial Twist
Interestingly, despite their shared roots, Wigglesworth and Blackett never played on the same team. This weekend, they will finally share a dressing room at Twickenham against Australia, a testament to their individual journeys and the power of this Lancashire rugby community. But here's where it gets controversial: is this success a result of nature or nurture? Are these coaches exceptional due to their innate talent or the environment that nurtured them? It's a debate that sparks curiosity and invites discussion.
The Legacy Continues
This Lancashire rugby tradition continues to thrive, with the current crop of coaches following in the footsteps of legends like Graham Henry, Sir Ian McGeechan, and Warren Gatland. The influence of these coaches, many of whom were former schoolteachers, is still felt in the modern game. As England prepares for their match against Australia, the impact of this small Lancashire village on the sport's elite level is undeniable. And this is the part most people miss—the quiet, behind-the-scenes influence of dedicated teachers and coaches shaping the future of English rugby.
