Player Centric Methodology
Using the core values of rugby - Integrity, Respect, Solidarity, Passion and Discipline - and focused on the whole person, the Barbarians staff (pleasantly referred to as the Babas) have the singular purpose of creating a safe physical, mental and emotional environment where athletes can flourish and thrive.
Once the rugby athlete feels safe and empowered, they are receptive to direction, feedback and internally motivated to improve all aspects of personal, professional and athletic performance no matter how difficult it may seem to them. Developing not just as players but as leaders, believing in their ability to actively contribute to their team, community, province and country’s success.
The academy offers a consitent professional year-round Long-Term Player Development Program for those rugby athletes.
Why Rugby and the Academy
Rugby is a vehicle for developing a person both as an athlete but more importantly as a person. It is a game accepting of anyone from any background and of all shapes and sizes. The nature of the sport means you have to rely on your teammates for not only physical safety but also to have any chance of personal success in the sport.
Inclusivity - all shapes and sizes: The specialist nature of different positions simply means it gives a place for people who could not necessarily find a sport suitable for their body type to actively contribute.
Respect for authority - Everyone knows that without the ref there is no game. You frequently hear players referring to the ref as, ‘sir’ and there are no protests against decisions like there are in football (soccer).
Community - People who love rugby all know that it’s so much more than just a game. We all know that the more you give the more you get from the community. This is why so many people stay involved in the game after they finish playing.
Diversified skills - Speed, strength, stamina, strategy, synergy - Not many sports ask that you need to be versed in so many different physical and tactical challenges while making decisions during the 80 minutes of mostly continuous play where self-control is vital but aggression essential.
By empowering these young athletes, one player at a time, we enrich our community with the next generation of driven, dedicated leaders. Who will solidify our reputation as the mecca of Canadian Rugby and strengthen Rugby Canada.
As you can see, these are all values that we want our kids to learn and live by ON and OFF the pitch.
Testimonials
“I met Martin about 8 months ago. Watching Martin coach the girls, it was clear he is a natural leader. The girls responded very well to him, especially my daughter. She speaks very highly of him and would love to play on his team. Even the short time that Martin was helping coach my daughter she says he is her favourite coach. When our daughters faced each other during the club rugby semi-finals, it was clear to me that Martin had been working with them. They played with an intensity and focus that I quickly recognized as Martin's coaching. I mentioned it to some of the parents that I was standing with. After the game I went over and talked to him about some of the strategies and focus I observed the girls using during the game. I asked him if he had been working with them and he just smiled and said yes. I have two daughters that play rugby that I would be very comfortable having Martin as their coach. He has a very good understanding of the game and a great big heart. I truly believe he just wants to see every one of the kids that he coach's succeed.”
- Jeff
“Martin and his team are very respectful of the players and pushes them to be the best athletes they can be. They does this by example and encourages the young athletes to push past their perceived limits. Martin has high standards and a confidence that his team will meet those standards, and the team seldom disappoints. Martin is enthusiastic and knowledgeable towards the game which he never hesitates to share with his charges. He encourages the team to try new positions to enhance their appreciation of the game and the roles of their teammates. Martin’s passion for the game is contagious and is passed on to the players and their parents. This season Martin had surgery that should have sidelined him for weeks, however after missing one game he was back at practice giving the girls everything he had. Martin is a wonderful coach, and my daughter has very much enjoyed playing for him this season.”
