Planet Rugby caught up with Johann van Graan on Sunday afternoon following the historic Premiership trophy presentation around Bath.
Stood behind the stands, covering ourselves from the blaring electronic music pulsating through the Recreation Ground, Van Graan reflected on the incredible 24 hours that had passed.
Johann van Graan’s reflections
“Ecstatic, grateful, thankful” – those were the three words that summed up the Bath coach’s feelings following their momentous victory at Twickenham.
Telling us that these memories will last forever, Van Graan credited “a real sense of community and pride” for what the group had achieved together over the past “three years, two weeks and specifically 24 to 48 hours.”
Having succeeded where so many other coaches had failed, it seemed only fair to ask if anyone had offered him the key to the city yet… but as always, Van Graan was humble as ever.
“It’s about making players better, and rugby’s an amazing game, the ultimate team game, one of the last gladiator sports remaining,” he said.
“You want to achieve together. It’s all about the staff, the players, and most importantly, the supporters of the blue, black and white. We did this together.”
“When Ben [Spencer] lifted that trophy, that sense of satisfaction. I’m so glad he lifted it as a representation of the group.
“When we came out of the changing room after the game to the bus, those scenes were incredible. Having the Premiership trophy there next to us on the bus.
“Most importantly, seeing my wife, my kids, my mum and my dad, because then we’ve got a family first culture.
“In life, it’s not what you do alone, it’s what you do together.”
They certainly did do it together, and the sense of community was clear to see. Like Charlie Ewels would later tell us: “You won’t see 20 people in and 20 out each year any more.”
The 29-year-old lock explained that Van Graan often talks about players being on a journey as they “step on and off the train,” but always an important part of the team.
Johann Van Graan’s future at Bath Rugby
Away from the chaotic scenes surrounding us, it was time to ask the question that many fans have been wondering. What does the future look like for Van Graan at Bath, and does he have an eye on the Springboks job in future?
“I think a day is a long time,” the 45-year-old coach said.
“I love what I’m doing here. I’ve been with the Springboks before, they’ve got a phenomenal coach in Rassie [Erasmus], a phenomenal team, they’ve won the World Cup back-to-back, so they’re in very good hands.
“When you want to become the national coach of your team, a lot of people have got to put belief in you.
“That’s outside of my control for now. I’m here at Bath, loving this journey with this group of staff and players, and I’m just thankful.”
Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/johann-van-graan-clears-up-springboks-rumours-as-he-credits-family-first-atmosphere-at-bath
