Coach in it for the love of the game
Photo: Nev Madsen
RUGBY LEAGUE: Rob Fenwick is a Valleys Roosters man through and through.
Such is his passion for league and Valleys, there’s a good chance he would bleed the red and black made famous by his club.
Part of Valleys since the early 2000s, the man affectionately known as “Stinger” was recently named The Chronicle’s
Best Junior Rugby League – as part of our Best of Sport series.
“It’s a nice little accolade. I’m quite humbled by it,” Fenwick said.
“I had quite a few parents, people at the club, current and past players congratulate me on being nominated and tell me I had their vote.
“It’s not what I’m in the game for though. I’ve never been in it for the gratitude or to get a pat on the back.
“I do it because I love rugby league, probably too much if you ask my wife.
“I love the game and I love being able to pass on some of my knowledge to young players and maybe give them that passion for the game.”
Fenwick began his coaching stint with Valleys in the senior ranks before taking over a junior team.
“I started off coaching the under-18s and I was involved with the Reserve Grade for a time,” he said.
“I think it was around 2009 when I started coaching in the juniors.
“One of the teams lost their coach just before the start of the season when he was transferred to Newcastle.
“I knew the parents of some of the players, and I couldn’t see them go without a coach so I took the job.
“Right now I’m coaching under-14s and they’re a great bunch.”
When it comes to training and game days, Fenwick likes to keep things simple.
“The role of coach has evolved a lot since I started,” Fenwick said.
“It’s not just about football anymore. A lot of the players, particularly some of the young lads, often come to you for advice and to have a chat, which I’m always happy to do.
“When it comes to the football, I like to keep it simple.
“I think the boys need a little bit of structure, but the important thing is to make sure you concentrate on the basic skills, running hard and having fun.”