Testimonials

Top the 3 things that DUR improved; Running Lines, Quicker transfer of the ball and Defensive technique.

Improvement most satisfied with; My defensive technique – with better technique in the contact zone I now feel I am a better back rower.

Most memorable on-field moment; My line breaks that set up two tries. I love scoring tries but I love being the one who sets it up even more.

Liked about the program; I’ve enjoyed my whole experience in Australia. Being here for 2 months and living the lifestyle of a professional Rugby player has been a dream. Thanks for letting me come!!!

Mathew Abernathy
DUR 2008 Graduate

I had a the pleasure of Coaching with Grant Houldsworth in 2005. Put simply, Grant has one of the sharpest rugby minds I have ever encountered. He is an excellent coach of fundamental technical skills as well as more advanced tactical awareness. Any player who has the opportunity to work closely with Grant will make immediate and substantial improvements in all areas of his game.

Marty Wiggins
US Eagles Assistant Coach RWC 2007
Head Coach Chicago Lions Rugby Club
USA Super League

Grant and I played together at the Chicago Lions in 2004. Although Grant is a specialist centre he slotted in at fly-half to direct the team. His vision and communication skills were first-class.

In 2005, I was out with a knee injury and watched Grant coach the Chicago Lions backs. He raised the level of skills and professionalism within every player in the backline. He spent many hours talking to individuals one-on-one and developing specific areas of their game. I was able to learn from Grant even though I was out with injury. I recommend the Down Under Rugby program to any athlete looking to make the next step.

Phillip Eloff
US Eagles
Chicago Lions (US Super-League)

When I first made the move to Rugby Union from Rugby League in 1999, I didn't really know what to expect. Coming to a club like Randwick, with its steep tradition and abundance of international players was quite daunting for a young player with no Rugby Union experience at all.

That's when I met Matt and Grant for the first time - both were established Representative and First Grade players who helped me settle into my new environment as a Rugby player. As I made my way through the grades over the next two years, Grant was instrumental in helping me with my understanding of the game and its rules.

As I look back now, I know I would never have achieved the things I have (Rugby Canada), had it not been for the coaching and playing support I received playing Club Rugby in Australia.

I strongly recommend the Down Under Rugby program to any aspiring Rugby player.

James Pritchard
Rugby Canada
Northampton Saints
Randwick Rugby Club

Y’all, Grant and I became great mates while he played and coached with the Chicago Lions. I worked particularly close with Grant as he was a centre throughout his Rugby career. The knowledge that he passed on to me was awesome. I can now pick my running lines much better, anticipate what is about to happen, attack in defence, and perform with much more confidence and skill. Grant was able to help me realise my true potential, find that X-factor, and become a US Eagle in 2005. He is missed dearly here at the Chicago Lions. His positive attitude and Aussie humor are irreplaceable. He is a great guy and a great coach.

Scott ‘Beaver’ Jones
US Eagles
Chicago Lions (US Super League)

Matty and I started playing alongside one another in 1998, rising through the ranks of Randwick Colts, Randwick 1st Grade, Australian U/21’s and the Waratah program. He was always a hard working and dependable person to pack down with in the confrontational world of a front rower. As well as being a team mate he is also a good friend whom I hold in the highest regard.

Adam Freier
Australian Wallaby
NSW Waratah
Randwick Rugby Club

As a player Matt had a very strong work ethic and although most of his work was done under the cloak of darkness in the engine room he still had an intimate knowledge and understanding of the game. His teaching background allows this knowledge to be transferred via his strong communication skills and his ability to relate with those around him.

Michael Cheika
Coach Leinster Rugby Club (Ireland)
Randwick Rugby Club

I was lucky enough to play for Grant during the 2005 Super League season at the Chicago Lions. During that time, I learned and improved more than I could have ever expected. His knowledge of the game (especially in the backs) is unmatched. He was able to spot the weaknesses in my game and quickly turn them into strengths. With his help I was able to take my game to the next level. Anyone that has a chance to work with him will make a noticeable improvement in their game. Grant is a great coach and an even better guy to hang with.

Scott Peterson
Chicago Lions (US Super League)