May Coach’s Corner: Team Effort by Allen “Clarkie” Clarke

‘The team effort – the perfectly synchronized flow of muscles, oars, boat, and water: the single, whole, unified, and symphony that a crew in motion becomes is all that matters. Not the individual, not the self’.

It may seem strange to commence my mid-season message with a quote from ‘The Boys in the Boat’ by Daniel Brown, but the story of nine Americans from Washington University, and their epic quest for gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics has been a theme for the Seawolves 2024 squad. The profound insights of the success of the Men’s eight rowing team that narrowly beat Italy and Germany to win the gold medal against all the odds, their success at forging a winning team from disparate parts and the value of teamwork, trust, and leadership fit with our quest to win a third MLR championship.

At the time of writing, we are well positioned to gain a ‘favorable lane’ come the play-offs. We’re pleased with our progress but recognize and are excited by the challenges ahead. The quality of teams in the MLR is improving annually, each opponent demands respect.

The ‘2024’ Seawolves are a relatively new squad; we’ve capped 18 players to date this season. Our success in the opening eight rounds is similar to that of the ‘ninth’ crew member who didn’t row in the 1936 final. In the same way a boat doesn’t go forward if each one is rowing their own way, so too team performance relies on the alignment and commitment of everyone. The contribution of the squad members who have not played to date has been fantastic and invaluable.

It’s great to see the investment of time and finances the Seawolves are committing to the community game. The work of Valenese Malifa as Pathway Manager, and all the players and staff who have committed to regular community events is critical to the growth of the game in the PNW. Similar to ‘a rising tide raises all boats’, we recognize our responsibility to care & grow the game of rugby union within the community in partnership with PNRFU & Rugby WA.

Finally, a message to our fans. There have been many notable performances, battles and nail-bitting comebacks. When we’ve needed you most, you remain true to the team and provide the wind in our sails that propels us to victory. You truly are special!!!

Clarkie

Allen ‘Clarkie’ Clarke

Head Coach and Director of Rugby