Aussies Secure Coaching Masterstroke Just Before Perth Sevens Kick-Off

Rugby Australia is celebrating a significant victory ahead of the Perth Sevens, having successfully lured coach Reg Tayler back from his stint in Ireland.

Tayler will take over as the assistant coach for the Australian national women’s team, stepping in for Olympic gold medallist Emilee Barton, and he officially joined the squad on Wednesday.

The Perth World Series tournament is set to commence on Friday afternoon, with both the Australian women’s and men’s teams aiming to improve on their performance from last year, where they finished as runners-up.

“Reg is a remarkable coach with significant potential and attributes of a head coach,” said women’s coach Tim Walsh.

“He has worked closely with nearly every player within the current squad. Reg seized the chance to travel to Ireland to learn and develop his craft in a different world-class setting.

“We’re over the moon to have secured Reg’s services. His appointment ensures a robust succession plan and a sustainable future for one of Rugby Australia’s flagship programs.”

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Team captain Bella Nasser noted that Tayler was her first sevens coach and is confident he will bring a beneficial “fresh set of eyes” to the team.

The women kick off their campaign against China at 5:45 PM AEDT, while the men face off against defending champions Argentina at 5:01 PM AEDT.

“There are no easy matches in this circuit,” remarked Australian star Henry Paterson during an appearance on Nine’s Today show.

“In a tournament, we play six matches. For those unfamiliar with rugby sevens, to win, you must perform well in every single one.

“It may sound straightforward, but when stretched over three days, you wake up fairly sore and stiff by day three. Therefore, it’s essential to stay present, execute our game plans, and deliver strong performances throughout the weekend.”

Paterson was then queried if anyone could halt the record-setting world player of the year, Maddison Levi, in Perth.

“I don’t reckon they can,” he responded confidently.

“History indicates she consistently scores tries, and the team does an excellent job getting her the ball. She, in turn, excels at finishing. The girls have clinched nearly every title over the past few years, and I’m sure they’re eager to add that home trophy to an already impressive cabinet.

“They haven’t secured one at home since 2018, so I know the girls are keen to make it happen.”

PERTH MATCH SCHEDULE

POOL A – AUSTRALIAN MEN

• Friday, January 24: Australia vs Argentina (2:01 PM AWST; 5:01 PM AEDT)
• Friday, January 24: Australia vs South Africa (7:52 PM AWST; 10:52 PM AEDT)
• Saturday, January 25: Australia vs USA (1:28 PM AWST; 4:28 PM AEDT)

POOL C – AUSTRALIAN WOMEN

• Friday, January 24: Australia vs China (2:45 PM AWST; 5:45 PM AEDT)
• Friday, January 24: Australia vs Spain (8:36 PM AWST; 11:36 PM AEDT)
• Saturday, January 25: Australia vs France (4:09 PM AWST; 7:09 PM AEDT)