John mitchel back at the Lions

Lions head coach John Mitchell returned to work at the Golden Lions Rugby Union offices yesterday morning, following a four month period of absence, and is looking forward to his future at the Union.

Mitchell is in the process of settling back in at the Lions and planning ahead for the 2013 season. He says he has learnt a lot during his absence and is positive about the future.

“I am excited about being back at the Lions and learnt a lot during the time I was away. I am looking forward to working with the many new faces in the team and I am sure they will bring a lot of energy to our set-up,” he said.

Mitchell praised the work stand-in head coach Johan Ackermann and his management staff did under adverse circumstances.

“Coach Ackermann and the management did a superb job and, at the moment, I am returning to consult with them, make future plans and understand their previous execution,” said Mitchell.

The Lions got their pre-season under way on Monday morning, where all players underwent various forms of testing and team management continued to plan for the upcoming season.

Mitchell is confident the players will be well prepared for the season ahead and will strive to meet their ultimate goal of a Super Rugby return in 2014.

“Our main goal is to secure re-entry into the Super Rugby competition but we have two other objectives – team development and a strong performance in next year’s Currie Cup.

“In order to move forward you must look forward and we are in the process of laying down the foundations we need in order to achieve our objectives.”

I for one am very happy to see him back, I believe he can be an important factor in evolving our gameplan, if he can change the success of the Lions, SARU will have to take notice.

A blessing in disguise for Sale. Another ego there wouldn't have been good for morale.

beshocked wrote:A blessing in disguise for Sale. Another ego there wouldn't have been good for morale.

Or just the thing to give them a kick up the bum and turn it around? A la Venter, Richards, Gold have done in recent times