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Zac WALLWORK- The coach

"This is my first year coaching the women’s team and I love it"

Zac is working in Haulotte Australia as Sales Manager for Queensland. He also coaches a rugby league team, and has shared more with us about his hobby

Tell me about your hobby?

I coach the BMD Premiership North Devils Womens team based north of Brisbane, QLD. The BMD premiership is the top Rugby League competition in QLD for women and the best players get selected to play for state and Australia. One of the best players Ali Brigginshaw is in our team this year.

How long have you been coaching for?

I have been coaching for over 10 years now. I stopped playing when I was 18 because of a knee injury and have coached various men’s teams over the last 10 years. This is my first year coaching the women’s team and I love it.

Have you noticed a difference between coaching men’s teams vs women’s?

I have noticed a few differences which I am really enjoying. The women in the team seem to have great understanding and use of the games skills, passing, footwork etc having come from Rugby 7’s background. They have more desire to learn and grow as players, they are like sponges. Its wonderful to be able to coach people that want to learn. Sometimes the men’s teams come with ego’s that have been fed from a grass roots level, but I have noticed the women want to learn and have a passion.

Their challenges are different; although they are playing at the top level, they don’t get paid the equivalent, so they still have to fit in jobs in order to support themselves which can be challenging when they also have to fit in training, games and travel associated.

What do you love about coaching?

For me coaching is not just about the sport, its about supporting the team on and off the field. A good coach can also help improve people. I provide an outlet for talking and listening, anything from mental health, work challenges or getting the right mindset. Ultimately any sport, especially team based ones should make you a better person. You learn comradery, develop friendships and work together towards a common goal.

How do you manage the juggle of home/work/hobby?

Honestly I find it best to keep them somewhat separate so I can dedicate my full attention to each area. Sometimes there are crossovers, like taking my kids to practice or a work call at home, but keeping clear lines helps me to spend quality time at each task. There are elements that I bring into each area though, like leadership and support for colleagues is my default, I am always there to help.

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