Mumbai, June 11
Tim Walsh, head coach of the Mumbai Dreamers, expressed strong belief in the transformative power of the Rugby Premier League (RPL).
The former Australian player-turned-head coach, who led the Australian women's rugby sevens team to a gold medal at the Rio Olympics in 2016, is confident that the tournament's structure, professionalism, and potential will propel Indian rugby towards greater heights, according to a release from RPL.
Reflecting on his experience as the head coach of Mumbai Dreamers, he said, "So far it has been excellent for us. The environment is very welcoming and very professionally run. The training facilities are amazing, and we're getting some great work under our belts to go and put on a show," as quoted from a release by RPL.
The RPL is the first of its kind franchise tournament for Rugby Sevens'. Speaking on the league's unique format, Walsh reckoned that the environment is helping all the players evolve.
"We get to share our knowledge and experience with each other and grow. Everyone here is going to grow- as a player, a coach, and a person. It's a privilege to be part of it," he said.
When asked about the Indian talent in his squad, Walsh highlighted how well they've adapted to the team environment.
"The Indian boys have fitted in extraordinarily well. They've got some serious skill and talent. Now, it's our job now to unlock it," he added.
The Australian also underlined RPL's long-term value for India's Olympic ambitions, stating, "Hopefully the impact is exponential. The tournament has visionary leaders and backing from amazing sponsors. Everything takes time, but with investment and professionalism, India has every chance to reach the Olympics."
"Shout out to Rugby India and GMR for making this happen. It's a really powerful growth moment for rugby and rugby sevens. You're merging sport and entertainment in a fantastic, colourful country", he added.
Asked what he's most looking forward to, Walsh offered a coach's perspective with a human touch.
"What I love about coaching is bringing different people together and watching them have a really good time. When they enjoy themselves, they perform well. We're after a great challenge, great energy, and hopefully, a win," he said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is fantastic news! Rugby has so much potential in India with our young athletic population. Just need proper infrastructure and coaching. Kudos to RPL for taking this initiative 🇮🇳 Hope to see India qualify for Olympics soon!
As someone who played rugby in college, I can say Indian players have raw talent but lack exposure. Leagues like RPL are exactly what we need. The foreign coaches bringing professionalism is a game-changer. More girls should take up this sport too!
While I appreciate the enthusiasm, we've heard similar promises about other sports that never materialized. Hope RPL sustains beyond 2-3 seasons. Need corporate sponsors to stay committed long-term. But cautiously optimistic 🤞
Rugby could be perfect for India - combines teamwork, strategy and physicality like kabaddi which is in our blood! Hope they scout talent from rural areas too where kids naturally develop strength and stamina through farm work 💪
The Olympic dream is ambitious but why not? If smaller nations like Fiji can dominate rugby, India with 1.4 billion people surely can! Just need to move beyond cricket obsession. More power to alternative sports!
As a sports teacher, I'm thrilled! Rugby teaches discipline and teamwork - values our youth need. Hope schools start introducing it. The sevens format is perfect for Indian conditions. Let's make rugby the next big thing after badminton and hockey revival!
Here are 6 diverse Indian perspective comments for the article: We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.