TEACHING, LEARNING

Q

Has becoming a coach changed the way you perceive disability, in yourself and others?

A

Once I stopped playing and started coaching I was able to reflect and what I did was quite remarkable. I’ve never seen a kid or adult run around in able rugby league (with a disability). But when I was playing I never knew anything different, I just wanted to play with mates. Looking back and knowing what I know now I realised what I’d done was quite amazing.

Q

What are the biggest differences in training para-athletes and the able-bodied?

A

I treat everyone exactly the same. Even at the Titans I train them just like an able-bodied team. There’s no point treating them different because they want to play rugby league, they don’t want to be babied or sympathised with. They’re para-athletes, not heartwarming stories. They don’t want to be treated differently.

Q

What does the future look like for disability rugby league athletes on the Coast?

A

As far as I know I’m the only one that has played able rugby league but I’m hoping to change that. I’ve invited Titans guys to come train and play at Runaway Bay and give them the confidence to play. If they want to get better and play weekly games they’ll need to play more able rugby league. That was my goal as Australian captain and that’s my goal coaching at the Titans. So that these guys don’t have to play parasport or disability, they can go in to their local clubs and fit in anywhere.