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Mitchell changes style after player mutiny
http://www.watoday.com.au/sport/mitc...u.html?page=-1
- Tim Clarke
- January 5, 2009 - 1:09PM
John Mitchell watches Western Force players during training today. Photo: Tim Clarke
Western Force coach John Mitchell has had his coaching restrictions lifted by the club - but has admitted he needs to change his coaching style after a player-led mutiny forced an independent inquiry into the rifts within the Super 14 club.
The former All Black head coach was back on the training track with Force players this morning, with the restrictions placed on him over Christmas lifted after interviews of staff and players by retired judge Robert Anderson were completed overnight.
After a team meeting this morning, Mitchell was present - but not vocal - at the first training session of 2009.
He did talk to reporters afterwards to say he was sure he would be the coach of the team for the 2009 season.
That pronouncement is still dependent on the report to be supplied by the former Supreme Court judge, with still no date set for delivery.
Mitchell admitted he would have to change his ways if he was to fulfil the remaining years on his contract - with evolution rather than revolution the watchword of the day.
"It has been a very interesting, challenging and beneficial period over the last 40 days," Mitchell said.
"It is going to require all of us to pull together to be totally committed and obligated in putting our hands up as moving forward as a group, and caring about each other.
"I don’t think I need to explain my style, I have had success in the past with groups and there is no reason why we wont gain success here as a group going forward.
"I am the first to admit that I am not perfect and I need to evolve my leadership going forward, and I am looking forward to that.
"I don’t feel on my own at all."
Until today Mitchell had been restricted from his direct contact with players, and also entered a mediation process with his assistant coaches.
Any Christmas frost appeared to have thawed slightly today, although assistant John Mulvihill directed the session while Mitchell observed from a distance.
RugbyWA chairman Geoff Stooke said there were now no restrictions on Mitchell's coaching activities.
"It is almost complete, and we will be waiting on the report from Robert Anderson QC. John Mitchell is our coach and will continue in that role.
"We are back at the status quo situation now, John Mitchell is back in charge and that will continue until further notice."
Reports said that as many as 30 players and ten staff had declined to support the coach when asked prior to Christmas.
Mitchell claimed today he thought the process - which is heavily involving his lawyer - could bring the club closer together.
"While a lot of people see it as not conducive to teamwork and harmony, but the great thing about it is the group wants to take responsibility and to me that is a real positive sign
"I sense there is an element of maturity coming out of this situation.
"I will be looking to improve those relationships, but this is only early stages and is not going to be fixed overnight, but the best thing is we are back on the field.
"You don’t move very far as a football team behind four wall and in corridors discussing things."
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Was the wait worth it - Ya betta baby 
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