Jones turns to geese to inspire Japan
Jones Turns to Geese to Inspire Japan's Rugby Revival
Ninoda.com – Eddie Jones has found an unexpected source of motivation for his Japanese rugby squad. The renowned coach, who previously guided the national team through a transformative period from 2012 to 2015, has adopted a unique training method involving footage of wild geese. This approach represents a fresh chapter in Jones' coaching career as he seeks to elevate Japan's performance on the international stage. The strategy comes at a crucial moment, with the team preparing for a challenging two-match series against Australia later this month.
The timing of this inspiration could not be better. Following a narrow 35-32 defeat to the Wallabies in Osaka last weekend, Jones recognized areas requiring improvement. His solution was both simple and profound: studying how geese maintain formation during their incredible migrations. The coach observed that Japan's support work "wasn't as sharp as we would have liked" during their opening encounter. This observation led him to implement a new philosophy centered on player positioning and movement.
Understanding the Formation Technique
The goose formation philosophy centers on a simple principle that has proven effective in nature. "The reason we watch videos of geese is that the head of the flock is like the ball-carrier," the Australian coach explained to his players. "The ball carrier is king, and then everyone else has got to follow after that." This concept transforms how players understand their roles on the field, emphasizing collective movement over individual brilliance.
"The geese fly hundreds, thousands of miles in formation and they follow the one goose in front, and it's the responsibility of the support players to respond to what the ball-carrier does."
This analogy emphasizes how each player must mirror the movements of the ball carrier, much like geese maintaining formation during their long migrations. The visual of birds flying in perfect V-formation has resonated with the squad, helping them visualize their responsibilities during matches.
Squad Changes for Townsville Challenge
In response to the loss, Jones has implemented five alterations for the upcoming second Test match scheduled for Saturday in Townsville, Australia. Among the changes, university student Yoshitaka Yazaki has been selected to play on the wing, while Shunsuke Uenobo receives his maiden starting appearance at centre. These selections reflect Jones' confidence in emerging talent and his willingness to experiment with different combinations.
While Jones focuses on his own team's development, it is worth noting that Australia recently secured their first victory under new head coach Les Kiss, who took over from Joe Schmidt earlier this year. Despite conceding an early red card to Miles Amatosero, the Wallabies managed to overcome the home side. This context adds significance to Japan's upcoming challenge, as both teams seek to establish their identity under new leadership.
Armed with his goose formation videos, Jones expressed confidence in his team's preparation. "We've set ourselves the task of really taking it to Australia this week," he stated. Acknowledging the disappointment of their previous defeat, he added: "We're very disappointed to lose the last game, so the most important thing now is how we take on this game." The coach's belief in his players remains unwavering as they prepare to face their opponents.
FAQ: Jones and the Goose Strategy
When did Eddie Jones first coach Japan? Eddie Jones led the Japanese national team between 2012 and 2015, during which time he helped establish them as a competitive force in world rugby.
What is the significance of the goose formation? The formation demonstrates how support players should follow the ball-carrier's movements, maintaining structure and readiness to receive passes, just as geese follow each other during migration.
Where will the second Test match take place? The second Test match is scheduled for Saturday in Townsville, Australia, where Japan aims to bounce back from their narrow defeat.
Who are the key players making their mark? Yoshitaka Yazaki has been selected to play on the wing, while Shunsuke Uenobo receives his maiden starting appearance at centre in the upcoming match.