Lyn Jones says his appetite for rugby has been restored as he embarks on his new job as head coach of the Netherlands national team.
It’s the latest adventure in a much-travelled coaching career for the former Welsh international flanker. As well as domestic duties with Neath, Treorchy, the Ospreys and the Dragons, plus a stint in charge of London Welsh, he has also had spells working in Abu Dhabi and Namibia, while his last role saw him at the helm of Russia for three years. Now, at 58, he is flying out to Amsterdam today to begin his new challenge.
“I’m really excited actually. There is a plan and a determination. With a plan, you have got a chance to become something. I’ve met some very impressive people. I just want to do a good job and help them,” he said.
“There are a lot of good Dutch rugby players in the world. You’ve got them in France, New Zealand, England, you would be surprised.”
After a nine-month break from the game and having overcome prostate cancer, Jones now has renewed enthusiasm.
“When I finished with Russia last December, I was exhausted. I really didn’t get my appetite for coaching again until about May time. I couldn’t face it. I couldn’t face the thought of coaching rugby.”
With his hunger for the game back, the Netherlands job was one that appealed to him, as he explains: “Apart from being a beautiful country and very nice people, it’s a very pleasant rugby environment and I’m very confident I can help these guys with being a part of the solution.
“I am happy to be able to contribute to their goals. One of those goals is to reach the level of countries such as Spain and Romania. Another is to participate in the Rugby World Cup in the long run."
First up is this autumn’s Super Cup, a European development competition involving just home-based players. That will see the Netherlands take on Belgium, Portugal and Spain. So once again, Jones is about to get back to doing what he enjoys most - preparing players for rugby matches.
On the health front, he admits to feeling very fortunate. Having been diagnosed with prostate cancer in April of last year, he underwent successful treatment back in Wales. He is now keen to increase awareness about the illness, which is so prevalent among men, and undertook a fund-raising walk up Mount Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania, in June.
“That was a challenge, I can tell you! It was really hard. It was eight days walking in all. We went the long journey,” he said.
On his own situation, he says: “I have been very lucky, so I am looking forward to years of health. It’s amazing how many people have come on to me. I get up and I speak about the disease. People come up to me and want to share their experiences, which is very nice. They feel more comfortable to ask questions about certain parts of the procedure that I went through.”
You can read the full story of Jones’ cancer battle and his efforts to raise awareness and funds here.
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