Craig Wilson
About Craig Wilson
Craig Wilson serves as the Head Coach for both the Yale Men's and Women's Rugby teams, bringing extensive coaching experience from various organizations, including the Hong Kong Rugby Union and USA Rugby. His coaching philosophy emphasizes clarity and curiosity, encapsulated in the phrases 'Rugby simplified' and 'The more you learn, the less you know.'
Work at Yale University
Craig Wilson has been a significant figure in Yale University's rugby program. He has served as the Head Coach for the Yale Women's Rugby team since 2015 and the Yale Men's Rugby team since 2019. His coaching tenure at Yale has allowed him to develop and implement strategies that enhance player performance and team dynamics. Prior to his current roles, he also worked as the Defense Coach for the Yale Men's Rugby team from 2016 to 2019. His contributions to the university's rugby programs reflect his commitment to fostering athletic excellence.
Coaching Philosophy and Approach
Craig Wilson emphasizes clarity and curiosity in his coaching philosophy. He uses the sayings 'Rugby simplified' and 'The more you learn, the less you know' to guide his approach. This philosophy encourages players to focus on the fundamentals of the game while remaining open to continuous learning and improvement. His coaching style aims to create an environment where players can thrive and develop their skills effectively.
Background in Rugby Development
Craig Wilson has extensive experience in rugby development across various organizations. He worked as a Rugby Development Officer at Hong Kong Scottish RFC from 2009 to 2012 and as a Performance Player Development Officer at the Hong Kong Rugby Union from 2014 to 2015. His roles included coaching youth teams, such as the Hong Kong U18 Women's team and the Hong Kong U20 Backs Coach for the Junior World Rugby Trophy in 2014. His background reflects a strong commitment to developing rugby talent at multiple levels.
Educational Qualifications
Craig Wilson holds a Master's degree in Performance Coaching from The University of Stirling, which he completed from 2014 to 2016. He also pursued further education at Harvard Business School Online, where he earned a Principles of Leadership Certificate in 2021. His educational background supports his coaching practices and enhances his leadership capabilities within the sport.
Podcast and Coaching Resources
Craig Wilson hosts a podcast that features guests sharing insights and advice on rugby. The podcast encourages listeners to engage in follow-up learning, promoting a culture of continuous improvement in the sport. Additionally, he founded The Contact Coach LLC, a platform dedicated to providing rugby coaching content and resources, further demonstrating his commitment to rugby education and development.