It is never easy saying goodbye.
This is especially so, when the time comes to close the door on a team and organization that has been such a massive part of one’s life, as the Crusaders have been for me, over the last 12 years.
The standing in which we are held now, as both a team and an organization, considering the position we came from at the bottom of the Super rugby heap when I first became involved as team manager in 1997, is something I take an immense pride in.
As should everyone who has been involved with the Crusaders during that time.
While there have been some enjoyable moments, and the outcomes of the various games and championships will stand for all time in the history books, it is the growth of the individuals – both as rugby players, and as people, that I will remember most.
The Crusaders have been very fortunate during my time to have been represented by some wonderfully talented people on the track, and amongst the back room staff off it.
But success isn’t achieved by just talent alone.
We’ve all got talent in some form.
It is how it is harnessed, and developed combined, and the discipline with which it is used, that ultimately determines how far an individual progresses in their given activity.
To that end, we’ve certainly had our share of players who have squeezed every last bit of performance quality out of the talent with which they were blessed, and it’s been satisfying to be a part of that process.
Although the chapter is now closed on the 13th Crusade, the players and management staff can be proud of all that they have achieved.
On a personal note, it was always my desire, when the time came to depart, to leave with a solid base in place that ensured the Crusaders continued to grow and strengthen in the future.
I’m happy that we’re in that place.
While an annual turnover of players is a fact of professional sport, and has been so ever since I first got involved with the Crusaders in 1997, there is a strong nucleus of individuals among the current group who should serve the side well through the next few years.
The development of the likes of Kieran Read, Ben Franks, Wyatt Crockett, Andy Ellis, Stephen Brett and Tim Bateman in the last two seasons has given the side a strong spine in behind the established list of All Blacks the Crusaders have.
This has only been added to this year, with the rapid progression made by the first-season players Kade Poki, Sean Maitland and Nasi Manu, who have all advanced enormously.
These guys are now schooled in the disciplines and ethos that are an important part of our set up, and will add to the Crusaders’ legacy in the coming years.
We also have the next coaching generation good to go as well.
I only hope that the organization sees fit to back them all.
I will be watching closely and will enjoy the future exploits of both the players and coaches, as Crusaders.
I know you will to.
Crusade on!
Robbie Deans
Head Coach – Crusaders
2000-2008
* As Head Coach, Robbie Deans was in charge from 2000 to 2008. Under his charge, the Crusaders played 118 games, winning 88, drawing 1 and losing 30.
Given that he was team manager between 1997 and 1999, Deans has been directly involved in 158 of the 169 games that the Crusaders have played in their history, since being formed in 1996.