Plano vs Woodlands

With the season concluded the efforts to develop the HPP is now in full swing. This process will be a work in progress and your involvement is not only encouraged but also needed. My goal is to develop a top notch program. Of course none of this can happen without the support of each and every one of you.

This Saturday we hold the first Academy School Championship Tournament. This was designed to make it possible for the best talent to meet in one location to be evaluated for inclusion to the HPP by both the HPP coaching staff and independent selectors. Is there a better way to do this? Probably, but this is a way that can be used consistently for the future and provide a platform for all those boys interested in playing at the next level. Of course I say next level because there is concern with those being involved as to whether or not it is a “higher level”. As a active coach myself, I would want this scenario for my players, just as you want for yours. I also realize that some programs have excellent coaches and the players may not feel they can learn from someone they do not know, or aren’t sure of their qualifications. If you think back to your playing days, you too have most likely felt this way a time or two. Obviously we can only do with what we have, and we should encourage the boys as the opportunity is not just playing for the select side but for playing in front of national selectors at venues with extremely good levels of competition.

I invite all of you to attend this weekend at Burr Field to watch, evaluate or just participate in any form or fashion. This program is not my program, it’s ours. It will represent Rugby Texas and my interest is to do that appropriately. If you can be there, and have the interest to assist, please let me know. Also, this is the last chance for a player to be involved with the HPP. As this is an Academy School function, it will count as attendance toward the selection process. So, if any of your players have not been able to attend the first 3 academies than they do have one final chance. Of course they MUST contact their respective Academy Leads to inform them of their desire to participate.

Finally, last week at the state tournament I have roughly 6 selectors evaluating those players that have attended an academy school. It was a great venue to see talent while playing in a high level match. This weekend will be another opportunity for evaluation. However, I want to give you coaches a chance to promote your players. Please email me with your assessment of those you feel should be looked at, although we will look at everyone, since we all know there is the possibility of an off game. I want the best to represent Rugby Texas. However, I only want those that are truly interested in doing so. In other words, I WILL not call and beg anyone to try out. They have to want it!

Thanks,

Rock