Gold honoured by Sharks post

LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 27, Gary Gold assistant coach during the End of Year tour match between England and South Africa at Twickenham Stadium on November 27, 2010 in London, England Photo by Steve Haag / Gallo Images

LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 27, Gary Gold assistant coach during the End of Year tour match between England and South Africa at Twickenham Stadium on November 27, 2010 in London, England Photo by Steve Haag / Gallo Images

Published Oct 24, 2014

Share

Johannesburg - Newly appointed Sharks director of rugby Gary Gold says he is honoured to have accepted what he views as one of the “most prestigious jobs in world rugby”, and emphasised his excitement about the long-term prospects for the Durban side.

In an exclusive interview, the former Springbok assistant coach said the opportunity to work at the Sharks was an offer that was too good to refuse.

“I think the Sharks have massive ambition, they’ve done well in Super Rugby, but obviously they want to go all the way. There are such exciting prospects for this team, they have some of the best players in world rugby, and a number of them I have already worked with when I was at the Boks. I’ve always liked what the Sharks have been about, this is a franchise that has the ambition, and the players to match. Obviously, no team is the finished product, but I’m very excited about the potential there is.”

Gold boasts vast experience as a coach, having worked with a variety of teams - including the likes of London Irish, Western Province, the Boks and Bath - and he most recently enjoyed a successful stint with the Kobelco Steelers in Japan.

The well-travelled coach said he couldn’t wait to take on this next challenge at the Sharks, while also being near to his family again.

“There has been huge success at the Sharks in the past, and I’d love to be able to contribute to them playing good rugby, and to hopefully achieving more success. It’s obviously not a case of just walking in and waving a magic wand, but it’s crucial for the team to establish winning ways, and enjoy the rugby they are playing.”

Gold elaborated on what this might entail.

“It’s important to play an attractive brand of rugby, one that includes a high-tempo, attack-based game that creates a spectacle that appeals to your spectators. The game is always changing, and I’m certainly not critical of anything that happened at the Sharks before me, but I just feel it is vital to find that balance between playing a brand of rugby that people want to watch, while also being able to achieve winning results. I think it is possible, and here at the Sharks, there are the players across the board that are capable of achieving this.”

So what would Gold be hoping to see from the talented playing squad at his disposal?

“I love the technical and tactical aspects of the game, but what is key for me is the attitude of the players, and their work ethic on and off the field. It needs to be something that sets you apart. I place a huge premium on that hard graft, and going above and beyond the call of duty. It’s about having that hunger and desire to really do the hard yards, and that can be very rewarding.”

As the new director of rugby, Gold outlined some of what his role would encompass.

“It will be two-fold. Obviously there will be an involvement in coaching, but I’ll also need to assume responsibility for the various structures at the Sharks, and ultimately the performance of the team. It’s important to oversee all aspects of the rugby programme, and I see great potential in the junior structures and Academy as well. It’s also vital to have that relationship and support with varsity rugby, club rugby, and schools.”

Gold has accepted a three-year deal with the Sharks, taking over from former director of rugby Jake White.

“I think we’ve seen with a side like Manchester United, and other big sporting organisations, sometimes there will be changes made, but it’s not the end of the world,” Gold commented. “For me, this is a long-term venture, and I actually don’t see myself coaching at another organisation again. I’m determined to spend the time and energy required to ensure the team is a really strong force.”

The affable coach also emphasised his desire to help foster a close-knit, “family” environment.

“What is absolutely critical is for the players to be happy, I want them to enjoy coming to work, and enjoy their rugby. Hopefully I can add value both on and off the field. I know it’s not going to be easy, I will make mistakes, and there will be lots of scrutiny. But I’ve learnt a lot from my years as a coach, and I’m willing to work 24-7 because I see massive potential here.”

Independent Media

Related Topics: