Brad Thorn, a former All Blacks lock, exemplified endurance throughout his extensive and acclaimed career in both rugby codes, a characteristic also plentiful among the Maltese populace.
Given that his wife’s mother originated from the sun-drenched Mediterranean isle, he possesses a deep understanding of the historical challenges the island has overcome, defying expectations and repelling incursions.
Frequently targeted owing to its crucial geographical position, Malta displays the marks of enduring some of the most intense bombardments during World War Two. Nevertheless, the Maltese inhabitants consistently resisted the unceasing German and Italian air attacks.
It was via familial ties that the victor of the 2011 Rugby World Cup, who also had a remarkable decade-long career in the 13-a-side NRL, took on the coaching role for the Maltese national team in November. This coincided with their Rugby Europe Conference season opener, a 27-8 victory against Cyprus in Limassol. Remarkably, his nephew, Adam Kelly, a semi-professional player in the Netherlands’ Ereklasse league, played as the outside centre.
The fifty-year-old individual has since gone back to Australia, currently serving as the assistant head coach for Brisbane Boys’ College 1st XV, alongside former Samoa international Dan Leo, who is the head coach. Despite this, he has not dismissed the possibility of future engagement with Malta.
“My boys share a close bond with Adam, being of similar ages, and we were just conversing, discussing the positive aspect of him representing Malta. Eventually, I spoke with the organizers, and they inquired if I would consider coming over (to lead the national squad),” stated the father of four.
“I have engaged in public speaking for various businesses and sponsors, alongside conducting some coaching sessions at different clubs, and the experience has been thoroughly satisfying.”
“It’s an excellent blend. I have a passion for rugby; I enjoy coaching; I once cherished playing, and then there’s that significant Maltese link.”
“Whenever I visit Malta, I consistently feel a sense of belonging, I always feel positive there, and I strive to offer my support during each trip. The location holds importance for me.”
“During my formative years, I had barely any knowledge of Malta. It is a stunning locale, inhabited by wonderful individuals – though one should exercise caution while driving – and its historical narrative is astonishing,” he further remarked.
“Throughout the Second World War, they endured more aerial attacks than London – for over 300 consecutive days they were relentlessly struck due to their vital strategic location. I believe they were on the brink of famine within two to three weeks.”
“They are a proud and fervent populace, and it is a wonderful experience to be engaged. I could readily envision myself maintaining my involvement, provided time constraints allow.”
Although Malta is considered one of European rugby’s lesser teams, holding the 51st global ranking, Thorn maintains they possess the necessary physical and mental characteristics to enhance their position. “I perceive the Maltese build and mindset as well-suited for rugby – they are robust and powerful; I must be among the tallest individuals on the island, and they exhibit strong endurance.”
Thorn oversaw the forwards, as well as strength and conditioning, within Malta’s revamped coaching staff, led by South African Dr. Phil Pretorius. Additionally, former Scotland age-group international scrum-half Greg Goodfellow handled defence, and ex-Spain 7s standout Jaike Carter managed the backs.
Goodfellow expresses considerable pleasure at being immersed in such extensive expertise as he aims to advance his coaching journey, following a tenure at Chinnor where he functioned as both a player and coach.
Having ceased his playing career, Goodfellow now divides his efforts between coaching Kavallieri Rugby Club and the national squad.
“As an athlete, I harbored strong ambitions and sought to perform to my utmost capability, and this ambition remains unchanged now that I am a coach. I feel privileged to be surrounded by such skilled individuals from whom I can gain knowledge,” he commented.
“I reached a point where I sensed limited further progression at Chinnor; naturally, Nick Easter is present there, and both he and Craig Hampson are exceptionally talented. However, the moment felt opportune to explore a new venture, and I am truly relishing the collaboration with individuals who possess international experience.”
Pretorius articulates his strategic outlook for Malta with a calm confidence.
He has overseen four national squads: the South African Barbarians, Tonga, the Cayman Islands, and lately, the Czech Republic. During his period with the Czech Republic from 2017 to 2019, Pretorius spearheaded the reorganization of Czech rugby. This initiative ultimately resulted in the nation’s advancement to the Rugby Europe Trophy tournament and its inaugural entry into the top 30 of World Rugby’s global standings.
He now harbors comparable aspirations for Malta. “I believe securing the Trophy is unequivocally our objective,” he stated.
“Currently, our player count doesn’t match that of Czechia, and furthermore, our contingent of international players isn’t as robust as Czechia’s, largely due to their inclusion of athletes from France.”
“We possess several players from England and Australia who hold dual nationality, but our aspiration is to augment the total number of participants on the island.”
“There are five club teams, each possessing a reasonable level of strength, and one particular club operates an excellent youth program boasting more than a hundred players.”
“It is essential for us to fortify the club infrastructure and establish a continuous development pathway; furthermore, setting up a school-based system is crucial to attracting more individuals to the sport.”
Pretorius previously held a position with the Bulls and additionally managed the Eagles and Falcons teams in South Africa, which consistently outperformed expectations.
“Our objective here is to extract the absolute maximum potential and drive from each player,” he remarked concerning Malta. “The premier side is the national team, and its performance is vital for drawing in additional players and financial backers.”
