Few individuals are better qualified to discuss the ebb and flow of high-level coaching than Andy Robinson. Twenty years ago this month, he was promoted to be England’s head coach with a World Cup winners’ medal and an OBE already in his possession. The past two decades have underscored that sport is as much about timing and resilience as it is about success and glory. The man sitting across a café table in downtown Bath has held and lost three head coaching jobs in international rugby in Europe, with England, Scotland, and Romania. He has also been a Premiership general at two prestigious clubs, Bath and Bristol, without losing his passion for the game. Even at 60, sipping black coffee, his eyes still gleam with enthusiasm. Ahead of Saturday’s West Country derby, he recalls never losing a league or cup game against Bristol as a player or head coach. This gives him a unique perspective on how the professional game has evolved and remained constant. Currently, he is a contact coach and head of the academy at Bath, where he was once a pivotal figure in the club’s trophy-laden era. He sees parallels between the legendary Bath sides of the past and their current counterparts, particularly in the fierce competitive edge that defined Bath.
Robinson’s journey includes many high-profile roles and significant achievements. He has honed world-class packs, steered Scotland to victory over Ireland, introduced Andy Farrell to English union, and signed Steve Borthwick when he was an unknown 18-year-old. However, his tenure as England’s head coach ended in dismissal in November 2006, a decision that still stings. Reflecting on key moments, he mentions missed opportunities and narrow losses that shaped his career. Robinson’s experiences in Scotland and Romania were also marked by close calls and missed chances. Despite these setbacks, his vast experience makes him invaluable to Bath and a potential asset to Borthwick’s England. Robinson emphasizes the importance of creating the right culture and winning, a lesson he has learned through his extensive career.
At 60, Robinson feels “very lucky” and maintains a sharp sense of perspective. His father’s illness with multiple sclerosis at a young age taught him to enjoy the moment. If you meet “Robbo” at the Rec on Saturday, you’ll find a grateful rugby man at peace with the world.
