Mitchell to stay at Force

[blueandblack]

Posted May 18, 2010 14:48:00

Coach John Mitchell has dismissed rumours he is set to leave the Western Force to guide struggling South African team the Lions for the 2011 Super 15 rugby season.

Mitchell confirmed on Tuesday that he will coach the Force next season before stepping aside but revealed he is in talks with the Lions to take up a consultancy role for their domestic Currie Cup season, which runs from July to October.

The Johannesburg-based Lions failed to win a game in the 2010 Super 14 season and their coach Dick Muir is under the pump to keep his job after just one year at the franchise.

But Mitchell said he would not even consider coaching a rival Super 14 franchise next season.

"I'm here right until the end of my contract so I'll be coaching the Western Force next year," Mitchell said on Tuesday.

"There has been discussions in coaching Currie Cup only between now and next Super 14.

"That's only been discussions, there's been no decision made.

"I'm entitled to annual leave, I've got quite a bit up my sleeve.

"I can still fulfil my duties here.

"In the last five years I [have done] very little at this time of year except plan and reflect.

"So I think it's important I continue to coach, especially going into a longer competition next year.

"It allows me to learn off another country during that period. There's a lot of advantages."

The Force were plagued by injuries this year and finished a disappointing 13th with just four wins to their name.

- AAP

[Timbo]

Reads as a very professional, well considered plan which would benefit both JM and EWF. Allows for an appointment with transition - much as has been discussed in a number of other threads.

Let's hope we see it come through.

[Burgs]

As you would expect Timbo, always a man with a plan and of the highest integrity.
Seeya next year Mitch

[slomo]

well I guess that clears up the coaching issue for next year........
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[The EnForcer]

Great news...I must admit I was worried about the timing of his announcement but he's proving to be the genuine, honest and upfront professional I believed he was.

[.X.]

Shouldn't the headline read - Mitchell Wants to stay at the Force.

A good statement from Coach Mitchell - but who's to say that RugbyWA wont payout the final year of the contract for a new coach to start the 2011 Season.

I am sure there is more to come from this story, this is not the end of it.

[Darren]

Unless there is a clause to the contrary, "Paying out a contract" requires agreement from both parties.

[brokendown gunfighter]

Shouldn't the headline read - Mitchell Wants to stay at the Force.

A good statement from Coach Mitchell - but who's to say that RugbyWA wont payout the final year of the contract for a new coach to start the 2011 Season.

I am sure there is more to come from this story, this is not the end of it.

agree Exile,
what odds that he will be still coaching the Force next year TG?

[travelling_gerry]

$1.03

[brokendown gunfighter]

$1.03

quite long then?

[travelling_gerry]

shortening.

[brokendown gunfighter]

like the chances of the Dockers winning another game this season?

[travelling_gerry]

$1.43