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Writer's pictureQuintin Wakefield

Embarking on a Journey: My Path into Strength & Conditioning for Rugby League Teams

As a passionate rugby & rugby league enthusiast, I have always been captivated by the physicality, skill, and dedication required to excel in the sport. Over the years, I have immersed myself in the world of strength and conditioning, driven by a burning desire to contribute to the success of rugby league teams in semi and professional environments. This blog post aims to shed light on my journey into this exciting field and highlight the key experiences that have shaped my expertise.


Roots and Personal Connection:

Growing up, rugby & rugby league was deeply ingrained in my family and community. Hailing from the beautiful Cook Islands, particularly Arorangi in Rarotonga, rugby & rugby league was more than just a game; it was a way of life. These early experiences nurtured my love for the sport and ignited a desire to make a lasting impact within the rugby community.


Player Experience:

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the physical demands and challenges faced by rugby league athletes, I took to the field myself. Representing the Cook Islands rugby 7s team, I experienced firsthand the intensity and dedication required to compete at a high level. This playing experience provided me with invaluable insights into the training methods and conditioning required to maximise performance and minimise the risk of injuries.


Coaching Qualifications:

Recognising the need to expand my skill set, I embarked on a journey to become a qualified strength and conditioning coach. I obtained my ASCA Level 1 certification, laying a solid foundation of knowledge in the field. This qualification introduced me to the fundamentals of strength and conditioning and helped me develop a comprehensive understanding of the science behind optimising athletic performance.


Working Towards ASCA Level 2:

My commitment to continuous improvement and professional development has led me to pursue my ASCA Level 2 certification. This ongoing journey reflects my dedication to staying at the forefront of the latest advancements in strength and conditioning training. I firmly believe that this commitment to growth will enable me to provide the most effective and up-to-date strategies for enhancing the performance of rugby league teams.


Semi and Professional Environments:

Through my experiences working with semi and professional rugby league teams, I have come to appreciate the unique challenges and pressures faced by athletes in these settings. The need for tailored, specific training programs that cater to the individual needs of each player is paramount. By fostering open communication and building strong relationships with athletes, I strive to create an environment that supports their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.


My journey into strength and conditioning for rugby league teams has been fuelled by a deep passion for the sport and a desire to contribute to its growth and success. From my early roots, to representing the 7s team and pursuing coaching qualifications, every step has been driven by a commitment to excellence. As I continue to develop my expertise and work towards my ASCA Level 2 certification, I am honoured to embark on this journey and look forward to making a meaningful impact within the rugby league community.


Remember, success lies not only in physical prowess but also in the ability to inspire and empower athletes to reach their full potential. Together, we can propel rugby league teams to new heights of achievement.






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