England Rugby coach puts Oaklands students through their paces

Rugby students at Oaklands College have been treated to an A-grade training session delivered by one of the nation’s finest coaches – England and ex-Saracens coach Paul Gustard. 

The England defence coach visited Oaklands at the St Albans Campus, home to the college’s various Sports Academies to trial some experimental tackling techniques he plans on using with the England team when they meet for the Autumn Internationals. 

After a winning streak of four titles in five years with the Leicester Tigers, Gustard went on to win the Heineken Cup, captain England Under-21s and came close to playing at World Cup level. In December 2015 he stepped up from playing and coaching for London Rugby Union giants Saracens to form part of the nation’s dynamic new coaching team under England Head Coach Eddie Jones. 

Head of Rugby Chris Waring said the expert’s visit was a great inspiration for students ahead of the new term. He said: “We are delighted to have Paul deliver the session and the fact he chose to use our students is a credit to their ability. 

“It’s not often anyone gets the opportunity for one to one training from those who teach our nation’s best – I hope our students will put this good work into practice for the coming season.”