Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick gives the lowdown on how he’s managing his time during the national lockdown.
In a candid video, Stick brings Springbok fans some insight into what his daily routine looks like during the 21-day lockdown period. His activities range from preparing baby formula for his three-month old baby to online coaching.
‘Online technology such as Microsoft Teams have made it so easy for us to be connected with each other, even though we are not able to be physically together at work or in a meeting room,’ said Stick.
‘By using other tech tools, we also share action clips for analysis and we have regular discussions among the group of Bok coaches.
‘Our normal lives have been disrupted because of the pandemic and we have to find creative ways to continue with our work. Thanks to the many available tools and platforms that we have at our disposal, we are able to do that.’
It was Stick’s turn on Monday to present a webinar to a large group of schools coaches as part of a series of SA Rugby online coaching seminars. The topic of his presentation was aerial skills and counter-attack.
‘It is a great initiative by SA Rugby and I think virtual coaching is a brilliant way to share our coaching expertise with a large pool of schools coaches who are scattered all across the country,’ he added.
Over the course of the next three weeks, Rassie Erasmus (SA Rugby director of rugby), Jacques Nienaber (Springbok coach), Neil Powell (Blitzbok coach) and other national team coaches are taking turns to present their area of expertise with the group of schools coaches.
ALSO READ: Bok coach’s special message to Saffas
Stick also added his voice to government’s call to all South Africans to observe the countrywide lockdown.
‘Following the government’s rules and guidelines is very important in the country’s effort to fight the spread of the deadly coronavirus,’ he said.
‘I want to urge all South Africans to stay at home and help to flatten the curve. Last year, during the Springboks’ successful Rugby World Cup campaign in Japan, we saw what we as South Africans can do when we stand together. Now, more than ever, is such a time!’
Managing the 21 day lockdown with a 3 month old baby, coaching via skype, and getting enough exercise is no mean feat – but Springbok Assistant Coach Mzwandile Stick seems to have matters firmly under control…#StayHome #FlattenTheCurve #StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/Zd6Pu9wgn8
— Springboks (@Springboks) April 8, 2020
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Hollywoodbets