Jones on mission to light up Newlands
NEWLY appointed Stormers coach Eddie Jones has already proved, as if proof were necessary, that he thinks differently to most rugby coaches.
Instead of basing himself in a plush northern suburbs home close to the Stormers’ training base in Bellville, he has opted rather for a modest Sea Point flat to be “close to the sea”.
It might involve earlier starts and more time in traffic, but hard work and sacrifice for something better underline his rugby-coaching philosophy.
Jones knows what he wants and he’s willing to make some sacrifices to ensure it happens.
Stormers players will come to understand this approach in the months ahead as Jones sets about revamping their preseason regime.
The players and assistant coaches will be taken out of their comfort zones, but all for good reason. “We are going to do the preseason a little differently to how it has been done in the past,” Jones said.
“We are going to do strength and conditioning and skills all together so that we can develop the game plan I have in mind. We want to light up Newlands.
“I’m new in the job, but to me Western Province rugby has been about attacking rugby. We have to mould that on some traditional South African strengths such as set-piece and defence with attack,” Jones said.
Choosing to coach the Stormers was a simple decision based on the history and support for the team, Jones said.
“The Stormers have the biggest and most diverse fan base in Super Rugby and (that) they are always excited to see the team play, made the decision easy,” Jones said.
“Cape Town is a wonderful city and Newlands has 125 years of history. The Stormers have never won the title, so the ultimate goal is to produce a good rugby team that wins trophies, but you have to be a good team first,” he said.