Lyon attack coach AB Zondagh says exposure to different systems, cultures and mindsets has been invaluable in shaping his approach to the game.
The 39-year-old South African was back on home soil on Saturday as Lyon faced the Lions at Ellis Park in a EPCR Challenge Cup clash, where the hosts ran out 42-33 winners.
“I think the fact that I’ve worked with different coaches in different countries gives you perspective,” Zondagh told Netwerk24. “You see how different systems work and how people think about the game.
“It gives you more insight into how to handle certain situations, which can hopefully help you make better decisions. I learn something new every day while I’m at Lyon.”
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Before joining the French club, Zondagh built an impressive CV, having coached at the Sharks, worked with Toulouse in the Top 14, and served on Scotland’s coaching staff under Gregor Townsend.
Rugby pedigree runs deep in the family, with his father Alan having previously coached Western Province and served as director of rugby at the Bulls.
Now part of a Lyon side striving to cement its place in the highly competitive Top 14, Zondagh says the project presents unique challenges.
“We’re trying to establish ourselves in the Top 14,” he said. “It’s a different project and it comes with different challenges.”
Lyon are currently 12th on the Top 14 log after 14 rounds with six wins and eight defeats.
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