Meet The Coach

Name: 

Russ Shayler

Which team group do you coach?

U12

What are the team sizes, rules etc for that age group (if M&Y)?

up to 12 a-side, 5 man scrums(no pushing), rucking, mauling, handoffs below armpits allowed.

How long have you been a Crane?

I first came to the club as a U8 – 32 years ago

What position did or do you play?  

Flanker or occasionally scrumhalf

What teams have you played for at Cranleigh?

If not where did you play? Throughout Minis and Junior age groups and all senior teams

Why did you retire? 

Never officially did!! – I still play occasionally 

Who is your rugby Idol? 

Jason Robinson

Who was your role model when you were a young player? 

Jonah Lomu

Give a brief summary of your age group last season:

Before the pandemic we were playing exceptionally well, getting consistent results against some very good teams. Our playing numbers were also the highest they had ever been. Unfortunately, this season hasn’t worked out for anyone but we are back enjoying training now ready to resume matches playing our full age group rules.

What mantras for rugby would you like to instil in your players?

Work Hard as a team, Respect the Referees decision, You get out what you put into the sport.

And for life?

Hard work pays off. Enjoy what you do

What 3 values, best sum up Cranleigh as a club?

Community, Friendships, Somewhere the whole family is welcome

Finish this sentence: “If it wasn’t for rugby I might have…….”! 

Never played on the hallowed turf of Wildwood Lane