Lee Blackett is rapidly emerging as a formidable offensive strategist in rugby. His innovative coaching style has sparked a transformation in how teams approach the game, and this has drawn attention from rivals, particularly in England.
Blackett’s Early Career and Coaching Philosophy
Before making his mark at Wasps, Blackett began his career at Rotherham, where he faced budget constraints. Despite these challenges, he led Rotherham to a remarkable top-four finish, a testament to his coaching prowess. His approach focused on a dynamic style of play that diverged from the club’s traditional forward-oriented tactics.
- Emphasized catch and pass mechanisms
- Built player fitness levels significantly
- Promoted a fast-paced game strategy
This method contributed to Rotherham frequently appearing on Sky Sports, showcasing Blackett’s effective influence over the team.
Success at Wasps and Transition to Bath
In 2015, Blackett joined Wasps as an attack coach, where he encountered a starkly different environment. He worked with elite players, including Danny Cipriani and Kurtley Beale. This experience led to a notable challenge of managing diverse personalities within a high-performing roster.
Promising Performance as Head Coach
After taking over as head coach in February 2020, Blackett achieved a remarkable turnaround. Under his guidance, Wasps won 12 out of 13 matches, reaching the Premiership final, although they faced defeat against Exeter.
However, by 2022, after Wasps entered administration, Blackett found himself seeking new opportunities and joined the Scarlets briefly.
Impact on Scarlets and Move to Bath
Although his tenure with the Scarlets was short, it reinforced his coaching principles. Players, including former international Jonathan Davies, praised Blackett for his comprehensive understanding of the game and his ability to instill confidence in his squad.
Davies remarked, “He was a student of the game who generated buy-in from players. That’s a critical skill for any coach.”
Challenges and Achievements at Bath
At Bath, Blackett encountered differing coaching philosophies, particularly with head of rugby Johann van Graan, who preferred a conservative approach. Despite initial tensions, they eventually aligned their strategies, resulting in Bath securing three trophies in one season.
This success highlights Blackett’s adaptability and his effectiveness as an offensive strategist, earning him respect among rivals and fellow coaches alike.
Conclusion
As Lee Blackett continues to shape the future of rugby in England, his ability to generate confidence and a flexible playing style positions him as a key figure to watch in the sport. Rivals are rightly wary of his impact on team dynamics and offensive strategy.
