Word from John Connolly..

[travelling_gerry]

Read my lips - this is my last hurrah with the Wallabies

John Connolly | September 16, 2007





For the record - I will not be coaching Australia beyond the World Cup.

There has been a lot of speculation during the week that I was considering going around again, which is disappointing as the focus should have been on our preparation for our very important match against Wales.

I was asked by journalists whether I'd consider going on and I replied: "You never say never." Some sections of the media interpreted this to mean I was keen to continue in the position, but that is not the case.

When I took on the job I said I would be in it for only two years.

I was offered a three-year deal but the end was always going to be the World Cup and that has never changed.

We can't have things like this distract us from the job at hand - and I hope the issue is now put to bed.
It's been a great honour to be involved with the Wallabies.

A few years ago a country's national coach said to me: "They'll have to drag me out of this job kicking and screaming." I thought to myself, "what a sad way to go out".

It's a position you need to leave with dignity when you realise your time is up. That's what I intend to do.

I love the job and that can make it hard to let go, but the best thing for the game is to step aside. You need to do what's right for the team and country - not what's right for yourself - and it is time for a change.

I've been coaching for 25 years - the last 18 at first class or Test level - and it's been a wonderful life.
As I get older I get more reflective, and I wouldn't swap a moment. It's easy to be driven by ego, because there can be adulation when you're involved with a prestigious job like this. It's important to do the right thing for the team.

The selection panel has plenty of time to find a replacement. There are some very good coaches in Australia - Wallabies assistant coaches Scott Johnson, Michael Foley and John Muggleton have done a fantastic job - and we have quality coaches at Super 14 level.

I will support anyone the panel puts up for the job, but as a personal preference I'd like to see an Australian coach the Wallabies.

Whenever you go to major sporting matches, whether it be at Wimbledon or the cricket, you see Australian sports fans wearing Wallabies jersies. I think they'd also like to see an Australian at the helm of our national team.

Source: The Sun-Herald



http://www.rugbyheaven.com.au/news/j...277047753.html

[JediKnight]

Always go out at the top (and hopefully a 3rd RWC).

Then you can always act as a consultant for South Africa!!!

[frontrow]

[The EnForcer]

I suspect som of his his remarks may be reffering to our man Eddie.

[shasta]

Always go out at the top (and hopefully a 3rd RWC).

Failing that,

you can always act as a consultant for South Africa!!!

Slight edit needed there JK

[Sagerian]

A few years ago a country's national coach said to me: "They'll have to drag me out of this job kicking and screaming." I thought to myself, "what a sad way to go out".

Well that's pretty much what happened.

[blueandblack]

I suspect som of his his remarks may be reffering to our man Eddie.

and others to John Mitchell.

[Jess]

I will support anyone the panel puts up for the job, but as a personal preference I'd like to see an Australian coach the Wallabies.

I think you're right B&B

[Sagerian]

....or Robbie Deans, or anyone else...