Leicester's Michael Cheika, Bath's Johann van Graan, Bristol's Pat Lam and Sale's Alex Sanderson came together for a special episode of Rugby Union Weekly English rugby's top coaches say they are determined to revel in the pressure of leading their sides into do-or-die Premiership semi-finals this weekend. "If you can't love this, then get another job," says Bath's Johann van Graan, as the league's runaway leaders prepare to host local rivals Bristol on Friday night. "If you're not enjoying it, what's the point?" adds Leicester boss Michael Cheika. "When the heat is on, that's the time to go: 'how good?' You would rather be here than not, so just get after it." After 18 rounds of the regular campaign, two sides will emerge from this weekend to reach the final on 14 June at a sold-out Allianz Stadium in Twickenham, with Leicester hosting Sale the day after Friday's west country derby. Ina special Rugby Union Weekly podcast,we were joined exclusively by all four of the men plotting to lead their team to Premiership glory, just days before the biggest game of their season. "Semi-final is not enough," says Sale's Alex Sanderson, who has guided the club to three successive semi-finals without landing the big prize. "That's no disrespect to Leicester - I respect a lot of what Michael is doing - and our game model is pretty similar. "But there are only so many times you can knock on the door, and at some point you have to try and kick it off its hinges. The team, the group - we just want more. "Sometimes because of the length of the season, you may be looking forward to having a couple of weeks on a beach. This isn't one of those times. I don't want this ride to stop." Pat Lam of Bristol adds: "I use that word 'privilege'. I've got five children. The oldest is 32, the youngest is 18. That's the playing group that I've got. "I get a real buzz seeing the experiences and what they are going through. It takes so much and you have to go out and earn it. "When you look at the Champions League final,PSG winning 5-0, that is a team that decided to go out and enjoy themselves. "Every time I have these moments I feel just privileged to be here and feel lucky to be doing what we do." Van Graan added: "This game is not about fear. This game is about attacking it - and may the best team win. "What would the world be without sport? I'm privileged to be part of it and part of a team that wants to achieve. "And if we want to get to the next stage, we've got to get past a very good team on Friday night." In his first and only season in the league, Cheika says he has "enjoyed the ride" in the East Midlands and has been surprised by the diversity of playing styles across the Premiership, citing Bristol's free-wheeling approach. He also believes the league has the potential to rival Australia's National Rugby League (NRL) and become one of the world's leading sporting products, with plans afoot to bring in a franchise model in a bid to take Premiership rugby to the next level. "I think it should be like the NRL, when you think about the population. The game deserves a bigger economy. It needs the league to get it bigger, more money in there so there can be more impact," Cheika said. "There's a really good thing going on here that we can build on, but it needs a central economy to create that energy, so teams don't go to the wall and they're able to benefit from a strong central economy with more sponsors, more people, more merchandising, a bigger TV deal, all that type of stuff that runs off the back of it. "As an outsider there is definitely the potential for the game to be much bigger on a national scale." But with the game's status quo under threat froma breakaway league,Van Graan has highlighted how the sport's foundations are built on tradition, and believes the league is in a strong place after a challenging few years. "That experience in Cardiff a few weeks ago, whenBath played Bristol, was amazing. It felt like a Test match," he said. "There are so many good things about the Premiership. My Dad went to the 1991 World Cup and he brought me back some grass in a little bottle, which I still have. Twickenham was always the place and I remember our game there against Quins three years ago, I thought: 'this is amazing'. "I can't control anything that happens about franchising, or rebel leagues, or the outside. All I can control is our team, and I'd like to think all 10 Premiership teams have done their bit to make this a spectacle in all of our different ways. "We are all different, but there is all respect for each other. I think the Premiership is in a good place." George Ford's fine late-season form secured April's Premiership player of the month award The semi-finals will pit some of the world's greatest fly-halves against each other, with Scotland's Finn Russell facing the USA's AJ MacGinty on Friday night, before 99-cap Englishman George Ford and South Africa's double World Cup winner Handre Pollard do battle on Saturday. "Every rugby player has talent, but you are looking for the ones who are special, that will just flick a switch," said Lam. Sanderson added: "I've worked with AJ, I've heard what Finn Russell is like and I've seen Handre work in South Africa camp. These guys are all but coaches, wearing a rugby shirt. "And at this time of the year, they take more and more ownership. Those are the great players. Fordy is one of them. He is going to be a great coach, but has years left on the field." Cheika agrees. "Ford should be on the Lions tour," he said. "That guy is high quality. He is a coach walking around in a playing jersey." Meanwhile Van Graan says Russell is more professional than ever, despite more than a decade operating at the highest level. "I remember one of my first visits in the NFL in 2011, visiting the [San Francisco] 49ers and they had this banner on the inside the training ground which said: 'Either you get better or you get worse - you choose'," he said. "There is so much hype around Finn on the outside, but he hasn't missed a training session bar the five weeks last year when he was injured. Those are the things you are looking for in players. You want guys who want to drive the group. "We are very privileged to see these guys perform and coach with them and against them. Because ultimately why do you coach? You coach for the memories and to help guys achieve what they want to do."
'I don't want this ride to end' - play-off coaches on season finale
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Premiership Coaches Highlight Pressure and Privilege Ahead of Semi-Finals"
Bbc News
7.0
TruthLens AI Summary
In a recent episode of Rugby Union Weekly, four prominent Premiership coaches - Michael Cheika of Leicester, Johann van Graan from Bath, Pat Lam of Bristol, and Sale's Alex Sanderson - shared their thoughts ahead of the crucial semi-finals set to take place this weekend. With the stakes high, the coaches expressed their enthusiasm for the pressure that comes with leading their teams in these do-or-die matches. Van Graan emphasized the importance of enjoying the moment and the privilege of coaching at such a high level, stating, 'If you can't love this, then get another job.' Cheika echoed this sentiment, highlighting the joy of competition and the desire to experience the thrill of the game. Both coaches acknowledged the significance of the upcoming matches, with Leicester set to host Sale and Bath facing Bristol in a local rivalry, as they aim for a place in the finals at Twickenham on June 14. The coaches conveyed that reaching the semi-finals is not enough; they aspire for their teams to achieve greater success and push beyond their current limits.
The conversation also touched on the evolving nature of the Premiership and its potential to grow into a more influential league, comparable to Australia's National Rugby League. Cheika noted the diverse playing styles within the league and expressed optimism about its future. He believes that a stronger central economy could enhance the league's visibility and attractiveness, allowing it to thrive and draw more fans. Meanwhile, van Graan reflected on the rich traditions of the sport and the strong foundations of the Premiership, despite recent challenges. The upcoming semi-finals will showcase some of the world's top fly-halves, including Finn Russell and AJ MacGinty, with coaches praising their exceptional talent and professionalism. The coaches recognize that these players not only excel on the field but also contribute significantly to their teams' dynamics, reinforcing the idea that coaching is ultimately about fostering memories and helping athletes achieve their goals.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article highlights the excitement and pressure faced by top rugby coaches as they prepare their teams for the crucial semi-finals of the Premiership. The coaches express their passion for the game and the significance of the upcoming matches, emphasizing the joy of competing at such a high level.
Purpose of the Article
This piece aims to showcase the enthusiasm and commitment of the coaches, portraying them as dedicated leaders who thrive under pressure. By focusing on their positive outlook and determination, the article seeks to engage fans and create a sense of anticipation for the upcoming matches. The coaches' comments also serve to humanize them, making them relatable figures who share the same joys and struggles as their players.
Public Perception
The narrative constructed around the coaches reflects a broader theme of resilience and passion in sports. By emphasizing enjoyment and camaraderie, the article fosters a sense of community among rugby fans, encouraging them to support their teams as they approach the climax of the season.
Potential Omissions
While the article focuses on the positive aspects of the coaches' experiences, it may omit the pressures and challenges they face, such as potential job insecurity or public scrutiny in case of failure. By not addressing these issues, the article presents an overly optimistic view that could mislead readers about the realities of competitive sports.
Manipulative Elements
The manipulation factor appears low; however, the language used leans towards glorifying the coaches' experiences while minimizing the potential negative aspects of the high-stakes environment. This could be interpreted as an effort to maintain a positive narrative in the face of intense competition.
Truthfulness of the Content
The statements made by the coaches reflect their genuine sentiments, suggesting that the content is credible. Coaches often express similar feelings in the lead-up to critical matches, making the article consistent with typical sports narratives.
Community Impact
The article aims to resonate particularly with rugby enthusiasts and sports fans, creating a sense of unity and excitement. This could lead to increased viewership and attendance at matches, ultimately benefiting the clubs and the sport's popularity.
Market Influence
While the article is unlikely to directly impact stock markets or global economies, it may influence the financial performance of the clubs involved, especially if the matches drive ticket sales and merchandise. Fans investing in their teams can create a ripple effect on local economies.
Geopolitical Context
There is no direct indication that this article holds significance in terms of global power dynamics. However, it reflects the cultural importance of sports in society, which can be a unifying force within communities.
AI Utilization
The writing style may suggest the use of AI tools for crafting engaging narratives, though it is difficult to pinpoint specific models. If AI were involved, it might have influenced the tone and structure to ensure clarity and engagement, steering the narrative towards positivity.
In conclusion, the article serves to enhance community spirit among rugby fans while showcasing the coaches' passion and dedication. It promotes a hopeful message but could benefit from a more balanced approach to the pressures inherent in competitive sports. Overall, the content appears reliable and aligns with the typical dynamics of sports journalism.