The PBC Alleygators will send all three men's grades into finals action this weekend.
We caught up with 1st grade coach Simon Rezo ahead of Sunday's Phil Temperton Cup Minor Semi Final against Surfers Paradise.
Rezo: There was certainly nothing comfortable about Saturday's result from our perspective. We knew the quality Eagles possess and they showed that throughout the contest, particularly with the pressure they applied to us for long periods. We approached the match knowing that, if we didn't get the job done, our next Tuesday session might not even exist. The physicality, speed and intensity of the game certainly had a playoff feel to it, particularly given what was at stake for both sides. From our perspective, it was a really valuable test heading into the playoffs and one that has given us plenty to reflect on and build from.
Rezo: I've absolutely loved the journey so far. We've worked hard as a club to stay present and focus on the week in front of us, rather than getting too caught up in what might be ahead. A big part of what us coaches are trying to create is a culture that our players genuinely enjoy being part of. It's honestly hard to believe we're now at the business end of the season. We often talk about that first session we had back in December at Kirra Beach, when everything was just beginning, so to look back and see how far the group has come is really pleasing.
Rezo: It's epic to be honest. We believe this is the first time since 2012 that all three men's Gators teams have qualified for the finals, so it's a really special achievement for the club. It's definitely a blessing and a goal we set at pre-season camp. The three teams will be able to push each other at training throughout the week, and our focus now is on creating the best possible environment for each squad to present the best version of themselves this weekend.
Rezo: I think it's a combination of both. We certainly won't throw our previous experience against Surfers out the window. We'll look at what worked, what didn't and use those lessons to help us prepare and improve. At the same time, finals rugby is a different beast, and we have respect for Surfers and the challenge they present. It's a great rivalry, and our old boys would tell you it's one of the strongest in the competition, which makes the opportunity to play each other in a knockout final pretty special.
Rezo: We know the intensity and speed will increase, and it's our job to prepare the boys accordingly. The players have bought into the game plan for the week, and we'll train with the intensity and demand the accuracy required on Sunday. We don't want to overcomplicate things. It's about trusting our preparation, staying composed and executing under pressure.
Rezo: We see quality across their 1-23. They're strong at the lineout and have some threats with ball in hand. We have respect for what they bring, so our focus is simply on preparing well and being ready for the challenges they'll present.
Rezo: I feel very fortunate to have joined the coaching staff at a time when the hard work of the Rugby Committee was really starting to bear fruit. The club has an incredibly proud history, and the way it has rebuilt post-COVID has put strong systems in place for it to continue growing and flourishing for years to come. One of my biggest motivations is creating an environment where players can have the same experiences I was fortunate enough to have as a player, and develop the same love for the game that I have.
PBC 1st grade face Surfers Paradise this Sunday (3pm at Coomera) in the Phil Temperton Cup Minor Semi Final.
