About this episode
Topics Gavin Hickie's Rugby Background Grew up in a rugby family in Dublin, Ireland with father and cousin playing for Ireland national team Played professionally for 10 years including for Leinster, London Irish, Worcester, and Leicester Tigers Came to the U.S. to play for Belmont Shore, which led to coaching opportunities Naval Academy Rugby Program Became head coach in 2017, transitioned program to varsity status Won national championship in first varsity season going 18-0 Emphasizes fitness, set-piece play, kicking game, and developing skillful backs Rigorous daily schedule for players balancing academics, military training, and rugby Recruits driven individuals who want to serve and excel in rugby Player Development Philosophy Focuses on character development and preparing players for military service Uses historical military battles as themes to teach lessons applicable to rugby Measures success by performance metrics and player growth, not just wins Values time spent together as a team as much as on-field achievements Notable Players Coached Madison Hughes (USA 7s captain) - Subtle, inspiring leader who led by example Lewis Gray - Aggressive, vocal leader who pushed teammates hard Connor McNerney - Mentally tough, refused to give up Emphasizes different leadership styles can be effective Advice for Aspiring Players Naval Academy offers unique opportunity to develop as leader and rugby player Application process is rigorous, requires strong academics and desire to serve Rugby community and alumni network provide lifelong connections and support Players should embrace their individual leadership style while committing to team success worldrugbyshop.com rugbynorcal.org