There’s a certain kind of rugby parent who quietly shows up, rolls up their sleeves, and just gets on with it. Dave is that guy — and the U12s are lucky to have him.
Dave has been involved in junior rugby for six years, starting out when his son was just five years old and barely big enough to carry a ball. Fast forward to 2026, and that little tackle-machine has just turned 12 — and Dave is still right there on the field alongside head coach Sam, enthusiasm very much not optional.
So what inspired him to coach? In Dave’s own words: “Why wouldn’t ya… great to support the club, help out the kids, be a part of the team!” Honestly, hard to argue with that.
This season, Dave’s message to his players is simple but powerful: show up, keep going, and back each other. “Support the team and be more focused on the fun than the winning,” he says — which is exactly the kind of coaching philosophy that makes junior rugby worth turning up for.
Ask Dave what he loves most about Eltham Rugby and the answer comes quickly: the community. And his favourite rugby memory? Flicking back through old photos of the kids when they were tiny. “Was so cute!” — which, coming from a rugby coach, is just perfect.
Welcome to the Wattle, Dave — we’re glad you’re in our corner. 🏉
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