As I was leaving the Wilkinson Center today, I happened to glance up at the TV monitor to see some highlights of the BYU Rugby team playing in an ad for the 2009 highlight video... I couldn't help but think of the great things that happened over the course of last year's season... and of the great advances that have occurred for the benefit of the team within the last few months...
Just yesterday, for example, I had the opportunity to speak with newly announced Cougar Rugby Foundation President Aaron Webber (interview forthcoming), and I can assure all alumni and fans in the ranks that the future of BYU Rugby looks bright indeed. This man, a BYU Rugby alum himself, well recognizes the obstacles preventing the team from developing into a full-fledged, self-sustaining program. I am confident, that with Aaron Webber at the helm of the CRF, we can look forward to the BYU Rugby team making great strides to become the program we all envision.
In the same breath, I wish to applaud the BYU Rugby coaching staff for their various efforts to build the rugby team into an established program, especially in the last year. As if winning a National Championship wasn't progress enough, the BYU Rugby team now enjoys a new and improved website with several great features never available in the past... and only more to come in the future.
Add to all of these advances the amazing schedule prepared for the team this season: a game this weekend against an emerging collegiate rugby presence, the University of Delaware; a Homecoming match against our rival Utah for the Wasatch Cup to be broadcast nationwide on BYU-TV; and a later match against the same University of Utah to be held in the 20,000-seat capacity, Rio Tinto Stadium... not to mention the usual playoff and National Tournament games at season's end...
And so, my beloved BYU Rugby Fans near and far, I share with you a bright image of the future... a deep sea of blue and white, spanning the nation over: BYU Rugby fans coming out of the woodwork lining up to embrace the nation's greatest team. It can happen... It will happen... It is happening already, right before our very eyes...
We are truly blessed... all of us: BYU Rugby players, coaches, staff, alumni, fans, friends, and family alike. Though outsiders may scoff as they please, no one close to the team can deny that the camaraderie experienced, the personal developments realized, and the relationships forged all serve to make BYU Rugby more than just a team... more than just a sport... it's a family that forms part of who we are and what we do...
As a member of that wonderful family, I take pride and joy in doing what I can to make it better... and I invite each and every one of you to do the same. After all, you never know what amazing things might happen as a result of your efforts!
Now, as concerning me and mine, well, you already know that we're keeping it 'in the family' from here on out... BYU Rugby Forever, my friends... onward and upward we go!
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Showing posts with label BYU Rugby coaches. Show all posts
Showing posts with label BYU Rugby coaches. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Thursday, June 11, 2009
BYU Rugby Head Coach David Smyth: Interview of the Week
BYU Rugby Forever's 'Interview of the Week' series continues with a few words from an extra special guest and household name among BYU Rugby fans, Head Coach David Smyth. After the hype and hectics settled following the spectacular National Title win last month, Coach Smyth agreed to answer a few questions to appease the curiosity of BYU Rugby Fans everywhere. (Photo courtesy of Paul Meyers)
BYU Rugby Forever:
Looking back on the BYU-Cal national championship meetings of the past few years, how has the consistent match-up affected your playoff approach? your team preparation and goals?
David Smyth:
In all honesty, we have kept our preparation very simple but focused. We never look past our opponent. We identify the things that we need to do well against the team we are playing against and then let the boys go to work. What we try to do throughout the course of the season is identify different options available to the players through good decision making as things unfold on the field. Very rarely do you go through a game where you are not tested to the point where you need to change things on the fly. The players themselves need to be able to identify these situations and make the changes. Our input during the course of a game is limited.
The playoffs do bring a different set of challenges through travel and the high level of competition, so on and so forth; we have a certain routine that we follow, but as I said, keeping things simple and focused is usually the order of the day.
BYU Rugby Forever:
In your view, what factors enabled BYU to come out on top in this year's championship bout?
David Smyth:
A number of things played a role in this year's result. Firstly, we were relatively healthy compared to past years. Our strength and conditioning program supervised by coaches McClure and Omer had a massive impact; our boys were fitter than they have been in past years. There was a sense of belief amongst the boys that if they worked hard and together and trusted each other that they could win. For them to trust each other, it required that every player needed to know his role within the team and perform to the best of his ability. I think they all did that!
BYU Rugby Forever:
With several teams "raising the bar" (especially this year) in college rugby, what is your outlook for the future? How will the BYU Rugby team maintain a competitive edge in the long run?
David Smyth:
I think the future looks bright! We are excited but not under any illusions when it comes to what lies ahead. There will be no shortage of challengers out there in the foreseeable future; we've just got to look 40 miles up the freeway to remind ourselves of that fact. We will continue to foster an environment where we test ourselves as coaches and players so that we can perform well.
We need to continue to bring athletes and rugby players into our program: these young men are the ones that make things happen on the field and without them we couldn't do it.
BYU Rugby Forever:
What will it take to establish the BYU Rugby team as the top program in the nation, even to the point of overshadowing the Cal mystique?
David Smyth:
I don't think you can overshadow the Cal mystique. To do what they have done has been nothing short of amazing! No one will ever come close to their level of success as college rugby continues to get better across the country. In saying that, however, we want to maintain our own identity at BYU by doing things in a way that works for us. Continually striving to get the best results and placing young men in the world who know what they have to do to succeed in their professions and within their families. Does that mean we will win a national championship every year? I don't think so...but if we are not close to it, we would all be disappointed.
BYU Rugby Forever:
You were recently named the "2008/09 ARN College Coach of the Year" as BYU claimed its first National Title. What does this honor, and especially the National Title, mean to you? your career? your family?
David Smyth:
I'm never really comfortable focusing on individual honors. It was a great honor for the program. It really reflects on the effort put forth by all the coaches and especially the players. The national championship was very special for everyone associated with the program. As far as my family, I should say how very grateful I am to my wife and children for all of their support through the years; they have been fantastic!
BYU Rugby Forever:
If you could send a message to all BYU Rugby alumni and fans, what would it say?
David Smyth:
Without the enthusiastic support of alumni, it would be impossible to contend for a national championship. In these difficult times, it sometimes requires a bit of a stretch for alumni to put forth even more support. Truly, there is a direct relationship between alumni support and our success on the field. Without their increased support, we will fail. Together, we can accomplish great things.
BYU Rugby Forever:
Thank you for your time and consideration, Coach Smyth. On behalf of BYU Rugby fans everywhere, I offer many congratulations on an amazing season and well-deserved National Title. Here's looking forward to next year!
Read more...
BYU Rugby Forever:
Looking back on the BYU-Cal national championship meetings of the past few years, how has the consistent match-up affected your playoff approach? your team preparation and goals?
David Smyth:
In all honesty, we have kept our preparation very simple but focused. We never look past our opponent. We identify the things that we need to do well against the team we are playing against and then let the boys go to work. What we try to do throughout the course of the season is identify different options available to the players through good decision making as things unfold on the field. Very rarely do you go through a game where you are not tested to the point where you need to change things on the fly. The players themselves need to be able to identify these situations and make the changes. Our input during the course of a game is limited.
The playoffs do bring a different set of challenges through travel and the high level of competition, so on and so forth; we have a certain routine that we follow, but as I said, keeping things simple and focused is usually the order of the day.
BYU Rugby Forever:
In your view, what factors enabled BYU to come out on top in this year's championship bout?
David Smyth:
A number of things played a role in this year's result. Firstly, we were relatively healthy compared to past years. Our strength and conditioning program supervised by coaches McClure and Omer had a massive impact; our boys were fitter than they have been in past years. There was a sense of belief amongst the boys that if they worked hard and together and trusted each other that they could win. For them to trust each other, it required that every player needed to know his role within the team and perform to the best of his ability. I think they all did that!
BYU Rugby Forever:
With several teams "raising the bar" (especially this year) in college rugby, what is your outlook for the future? How will the BYU Rugby team maintain a competitive edge in the long run?
David Smyth:
I think the future looks bright! We are excited but not under any illusions when it comes to what lies ahead. There will be no shortage of challengers out there in the foreseeable future; we've just got to look 40 miles up the freeway to remind ourselves of that fact. We will continue to foster an environment where we test ourselves as coaches and players so that we can perform well.
We need to continue to bring athletes and rugby players into our program: these young men are the ones that make things happen on the field and without them we couldn't do it.
BYU Rugby Forever:
What will it take to establish the BYU Rugby team as the top program in the nation, even to the point of overshadowing the Cal mystique?
David Smyth:
I don't think you can overshadow the Cal mystique. To do what they have done has been nothing short of amazing! No one will ever come close to their level of success as college rugby continues to get better across the country. In saying that, however, we want to maintain our own identity at BYU by doing things in a way that works for us. Continually striving to get the best results and placing young men in the world who know what they have to do to succeed in their professions and within their families. Does that mean we will win a national championship every year? I don't think so...but if we are not close to it, we would all be disappointed.
BYU Rugby Forever:
You were recently named the "2008/09 ARN College Coach of the Year" as BYU claimed its first National Title. What does this honor, and especially the National Title, mean to you? your career? your family?
David Smyth:
I'm never really comfortable focusing on individual honors. It was a great honor for the program. It really reflects on the effort put forth by all the coaches and especially the players. The national championship was very special for everyone associated with the program. As far as my family, I should say how very grateful I am to my wife and children for all of their support through the years; they have been fantastic!
BYU Rugby Forever:
If you could send a message to all BYU Rugby alumni and fans, what would it say?
David Smyth:
Without the enthusiastic support of alumni, it would be impossible to contend for a national championship. In these difficult times, it sometimes requires a bit of a stretch for alumni to put forth even more support. Truly, there is a direct relationship between alumni support and our success on the field. Without their increased support, we will fail. Together, we can accomplish great things.
BYU Rugby Forever:
Thank you for your time and consideration, Coach Smyth. On behalf of BYU Rugby fans everywhere, I offer many congratulations on an amazing season and well-deserved National Title. Here's looking forward to next year!
Read more...
Monday, May 18, 2009
Winger Manti Su'a: Interview of the Week
In the wake of the BYU Rugby team's first National Championship win, BYU Rugby Forever continues the "Interview of the Week" series; this week's guest is BYU's starting winger, Manti Su'a. Although Manti was unable to play in the final against Cal due to injury, nevertheless his efforts throughout the season, as well as in tournament play, helped propel BYU to the top after all was said and done. (Photo courtesy of Paul Meyers)
BYU Rugby Forever:
How has being a member of the BYU Rugby team impacted your life? your future goals/plans?
Manti Su'a:
Having had the opportunity to play for the team has been a huge blessing. From a scholastic point of view, I learned very early that I would have to plan out my week in advance and learn how to effectively balance my schedule and use my time wisely. From a long-term perspective, it helped me to figure out which direction I want my life to go and how to set and accomplish goals to ensure I get there. I went to the finals three times with my team; two of those times we came up short in the end. Each season took a lot self-evaluation and introspection. I’d ask myself, “what aren’t you doing to make this team better?” Once I knew what I needed to do, it was just a matter of implementing it into every training session and every game.
BYU Rugby Forever:
What were the greatest moments/highlights of the 2008-09 season for you?
Manti Su'a:
The first moment that comes to mind was against Arkansas State in the round of 8. It was an all out battle from the second the match started. At the half we were losing (which I think was the first time we’d been down at the half all season), and I was pretty frustrated. When the second half started, I glanced over at our inside center Tupu and he was staring at me just laughing! I was so caught off guard that I started cracking up too! That little exchange calmed me down and gave me back my confidence. Minutes later my “baby” brother Mikey got the ball and ran hard and strong right at Arkansas State, laying a couple of their boys out. After that, the intensity went through the roof and the rest was history.
Another memorable moment was when we played the University of Utah at home on South Field. The game was being covered by ESPNU, the stadium was packed, and it seemed like our team was totally in sync. With about ten seconds left in the game, our backs got the ball and attacked from about twenty meters out. I got the ball on the wing after our fullback, Sam Thorley, made an amazing pass which allowed me to score. All I remember was how loud the stadium got. It was pretty crazy!
BYU Rugby Forever:
You were injured in the Big Four match against San Diego State. What exactly happened, and how are you feeling now?
Manti Su'a:
Late in the first half, we kicked the ball straight out from a kick-off. There was a little confusion on the field that resulted in one of the players from San Diego State with a break-away run down the sideline. I chased him down and dove to tackle him, and in the process I got kicked in the face resulting in a broken nose and some eye damage. I had to have some minor surgery that night which kept me sidelined for the finals. It was a bummer that I couldn’t play in the finals, but I was really proud of our true freshman, wing Jordan Lowry, for stepping up to the challenge and playing amazing in the championship. I’m doing a lot better now, except when I asked the doctor if he could do anything about the ugliness in my face, he replied that the unattractiveness was present before the accident and unless I wanted to undergo some serious surgical procedures, I’d be stuck with this face forever. I happily declined.
BYU Rugby Forever:
Some fans don't know that starting prop 'Big Mikey' is your younger brother. Did that relationship affect or influence your performance on the field?
Manti Su'a:
It really did. It’s a huge confidence builder knowing that I’m taking the field with him. We like to get each other fired up for each game, but we also joke around and calm each other down when we need it. We’ve been playing sports together since I was in second grade and we wore the same size clothes! Over the years we’ve learned how to read each other and work together.
BYU Rugby Forever:
Thoughts on the future of the BYU Rugby team? Counsel, suggestions, ideas?
Manti Su'a:
I look at the younger guys on the team and see not just talent and skill, but a good group of guys that are coachable. Apart from that, the coaching staff (Smyth, Tarawhiti, Kjar and Nadauld) are amazing at what they do. Each game we knew exactly what we were up against and what we needed to do to win. My only counsel to the future players is to listen to the coaches because they know how to win and to dedicate yourself to being the best athlete you can be (and that means not only physically, but also mentally by taking care of everything in the classroom, so when it’s time for rugby, you can focus on rugby, knowing that you’ve all ready taken care of school).
BYU Rugby Forever:
If you could say anything to all the BYU Rugby alumni and fans out there, what would you say?
Manti Su'a:
Thanks for all the support for the past three years! Playing in front of so many amazing fans made my three years of BYU rugby some of the greatest memories of my college experience. BYU rugby wouldn’t be where it is today if it weren’t for the alumni and fans. Thanks for everything!
Read more...
BYU Rugby Forever:How has being a member of the BYU Rugby team impacted your life? your future goals/plans?
Manti Su'a:
Having had the opportunity to play for the team has been a huge blessing. From a scholastic point of view, I learned very early that I would have to plan out my week in advance and learn how to effectively balance my schedule and use my time wisely. From a long-term perspective, it helped me to figure out which direction I want my life to go and how to set and accomplish goals to ensure I get there. I went to the finals three times with my team; two of those times we came up short in the end. Each season took a lot self-evaluation and introspection. I’d ask myself, “what aren’t you doing to make this team better?” Once I knew what I needed to do, it was just a matter of implementing it into every training session and every game.
BYU Rugby Forever:
What were the greatest moments/highlights of the 2008-09 season for you?
Manti Su'a:
The first moment that comes to mind was against Arkansas State in the round of 8. It was an all out battle from the second the match started. At the half we were losing (which I think was the first time we’d been down at the half all season), and I was pretty frustrated. When the second half started, I glanced over at our inside center Tupu and he was staring at me just laughing! I was so caught off guard that I started cracking up too! That little exchange calmed me down and gave me back my confidence. Minutes later my “baby” brother Mikey got the ball and ran hard and strong right at Arkansas State, laying a couple of their boys out. After that, the intensity went through the roof and the rest was history.
Another memorable moment was when we played the University of Utah at home on South Field. The game was being covered by ESPNU, the stadium was packed, and it seemed like our team was totally in sync. With about ten seconds left in the game, our backs got the ball and attacked from about twenty meters out. I got the ball on the wing after our fullback, Sam Thorley, made an amazing pass which allowed me to score. All I remember was how loud the stadium got. It was pretty crazy!
BYU Rugby Forever:
You were injured in the Big Four match against San Diego State. What exactly happened, and how are you feeling now?
Manti Su'a:
Late in the first half, we kicked the ball straight out from a kick-off. There was a little confusion on the field that resulted in one of the players from San Diego State with a break-away run down the sideline. I chased him down and dove to tackle him, and in the process I got kicked in the face resulting in a broken nose and some eye damage. I had to have some minor surgery that night which kept me sidelined for the finals. It was a bummer that I couldn’t play in the finals, but I was really proud of our true freshman, wing Jordan Lowry, for stepping up to the challenge and playing amazing in the championship. I’m doing a lot better now, except when I asked the doctor if he could do anything about the ugliness in my face, he replied that the unattractiveness was present before the accident and unless I wanted to undergo some serious surgical procedures, I’d be stuck with this face forever. I happily declined.
BYU Rugby Forever:
Some fans don't know that starting prop 'Big Mikey' is your younger brother. Did that relationship affect or influence your performance on the field?
Manti Su'a:
It really did. It’s a huge confidence builder knowing that I’m taking the field with him. We like to get each other fired up for each game, but we also joke around and calm each other down when we need it. We’ve been playing sports together since I was in second grade and we wore the same size clothes! Over the years we’ve learned how to read each other and work together.
BYU Rugby Forever:
Thoughts on the future of the BYU Rugby team? Counsel, suggestions, ideas?
Manti Su'a:
I look at the younger guys on the team and see not just talent and skill, but a good group of guys that are coachable. Apart from that, the coaching staff (Smyth, Tarawhiti, Kjar and Nadauld) are amazing at what they do. Each game we knew exactly what we were up against and what we needed to do to win. My only counsel to the future players is to listen to the coaches because they know how to win and to dedicate yourself to being the best athlete you can be (and that means not only physically, but also mentally by taking care of everything in the classroom, so when it’s time for rugby, you can focus on rugby, knowing that you’ve all ready taken care of school).
BYU Rugby Forever:
If you could say anything to all the BYU Rugby alumni and fans out there, what would you say?
Manti Su'a:
Thanks for all the support for the past three years! Playing in front of so many amazing fans made my three years of BYU rugby some of the greatest memories of my college experience. BYU rugby wouldn’t be where it is today if it weren’t for the alumni and fans. Thanks for everything!
Read more...
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
BYU vs. Cal: "The Miracle" photos
My beloved BYU Rugby fans... if you have never taken a moment to check out the BYU Rugby photo archives this season, I encourage you to do so now. Paul Meyers has captured Our boys' finest moments as they snatched the National Title throne right out from under Cal, a moment that many of us will never forget! Please take a few minutes to enjoy the plethora of photos by clicking the following link:National Championship, Final Match: BYU vs. Cal Berkeley
Read more...
Saturday, May 9, 2009
BYU vs. San Diego State photos
Just a few photos to help everyone remember just how intense BYU's Big Four match really was... San Diego State definitely put up a tough one, actually leading BYU 13-5 at the half. Our boys battled back in the second half, however, to shut out SDSU while putting up 26 points; BYU advanced to its 4th-consecutive National Title match with a final score of 31-13. Click the following link for more photos of the BYU Rugby team in Big Four action (courtesy of Paul Meyers):Big Four: BYU vs. San Diego State
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