It’s hard to believe I’ve been at this for thirteen years. Thinking back to those first few seasons is a bit like looking back on old journals from school – a bit humbling, and even a tad embarrassing, but reaching maturity isn’t an instantaneous process! In that time rugby has taken me to the UK, New Zealand, Australia, Samoa and back to Canada again each time.
I have learned a lot about the game, people in general, the ways of the world and myself as a result and aim to continue that journey. While financial reward for this dedication has come about as frequently as do tries in contact rugby for me, I consider myself amply compensated in richness of experience because of this wonderful game. Rewards come most often in the form of the ‘light bulb moment’ where I can see instruction turning into awareness, shining a light on new understanding for someone I’m teaching. As such, I am a player-centred coach who cares more about each individual’s enjoyment, fulfilment and personal growth within the game than the outcome of a match or season, maintaining that if none of these personal victories are achieved, then why are we even here?
Rob Nichol
BA, BEd, ARU Level 2, IRB Ref. Level 1
Coaching Experience
Coach (Sept. 2010 – June 2011)
Velox Valkyries Women Victoria, British Columbia
- Assisted first and second string teams, focusing primarily on the backs
- Facilitated skill development though individual sessions with high performance athletes
- Filmed matches and led video analysis sessions
Coach (Feb. 2011 –May 2011)
St Michael’s University School Gr. 7 Boys Victoria, British Columbia
- Coached boys sevens team, focusing on playing ‘heads up’ rugby
Head Coach (Feb. 2010 – June 2010)
Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School Girls London, Ontario
- Incorporating more athlete-centred physical, tactical, technical and mental approaches
- Managing six staff members and two squads
Assistant Coach / Video Analyst (Sept. 2009 – April 2010)
University of Western Ontario Women London, Ontario
- Assisted with skill development and filmed matches
- Created and delivered post-match analytical video sessions
Head Coach (Jan. 2008 – July 2008)
Tuggeranong Vikings Women Canberra, Australia
- Solely responsible for coaching highly achieving women’s program
- Worked with team leaders to plan practices and recruit and retain new players
- Liaised with support staff – fitness, medical, mentor coaches – to monitor athlete health and progress
Head Coach (2003 – 2006)
Carleton University Women Ottawa, Ontario
- Solely responsible for all coaching and managerial duties
- Engaged in community networks to promote sport and recruit new players
Head Coach (2000 – 2003, 2007)
Orillia Dingos / Warriors – U18 and U21 men Orillia, Ontario
- Solely responsible for all coaching and managerial duties
- Liaised with parents and media to promote sport positively in community
- Have been consultant to newly reformed men’s program for past two years.
Other Coaching Positions
London St. George’s Women – London, Ontario (2009, 2011)
Ottawa Beavers Men – Ottawa, Ontario (2008)
Ashbury College Boys – Ottawa, Ontario (2006)
Clifton RFC U15 Boys – Bristol, England (2005)
Park Street Collegiate Boys – Orillia, Ontario (2003)
Twin Lakes Secondary School Boys – Orillia, Ontario (1999-2002)
