Coach spotlight

Coach Rowley - Linebackers & Special Teams Coach

So - American Football. How did you discover the sport?

This shows my age! I got into it the first season it was shown in the UK. It was the ‘85 Bears season. My Dad and Uncle had started watching the NFL and introduced me to the sport, I was instantly hooked! My Dad and I then used to watch the highlights together on a Monday night, right up until I left home for University .

And what attracted you to coaching football?

I enjoy coaching and supporting my team at work to get the best out of themselves. I wanted to use some of those skills in a sporting sense and was looking for something new. My Dad and eldest daughter encouraged me to try coaching football after watching me call a few plays on a Green Bay Packers game.

So why the Sheffield Giants?

After deciding to get into coaching, I was looking for a local team to get involved with. Looking back now it was a bold move considering my involvement had only ever been in an armchair! I am grateful that [previous Head Coach] Toby Chesters was happy to bring me in and give me a shot, it’s been a great experience.

And how are you finding the rebuild this year?

The success we’ve had with recruitment has brought with it a different energy. It’s exciting to see so many new players all the way from the university guys to players returning after a break to those who’ve joined having never played. Everyone has contributed to making it a fun environment where everyone’s development is supported.

How is this season going for you personally?

I’m having a lot of fun. My knowledge is continuously expanding and I am developing as a coach, having just submitted my BAFCA Level 1. We have a nice blend of new guys and returners in the Linebackers, they are a great bunch and as individuals and as a unit, they are getting better week by week.

And you have Eli overseeing the defence. How do you find working with him?

Eli just has a football brain. Just being around him means I pick up stuff, whether its technique, drills or scheme. He’s also been supportive along with Nando [Coach Carvalho, Linebackers] in getting me involved and pushing my development. I learn better by doing so that’s great for me.

This year you’ve also taken on some Special Teams responsibility too. That’s a whole different game! Tell us about that. Having responsibility for an element of the game that gets overlooked but can make a big difference has been exhilarating. Every time we kick off, I get nervous and excited, as I know we have the ability to pin teams back and reduce the likelihood of them scoring. As the season goes on, it’s been amazing to see the group develop as a unit and individuals showing that hunger to be involved.

Do you have any standout moments, as a player or a coach?

There’s quite a few actually, but Edinburgh Away last year stands out. It was a really long day but a brilliant experience. Sadly we lost the game right at the end but it was a good performance. The trip on the way home was a big laugh with rookie performances, including my own!

Away from coaching, you’re also involved in Giants Flag. Can you tell us about that? With coaching you’re looking out for a unit and adapting your style and messaging to connect with your guys. Once they are in the field, your ability to influence is massively reduced which can be hard. Playing Flag is simpler in that I can just focus on my responsibilities on the pitch. It’s a lot of fun and there’s a great atmosphere in what’s a relatively new team. I’ve had so much fun, my eldest daughter joined the U14’s at the start of the year and is also loving it. Looking ahead to the game against Birmingham. How are you feeling?

It was a grueling match in Birmingham, it was physical and longer than usual due to the much needed water breaks . We came away frustrated at our performance and know we can do better. I believe we will step up and put on a big performance against them at home.

Stepping away from the field, what do you get up to when you’re not coaching or playing Flag?

I enjoy spending time with my family, often watching movies or planning a holiday. I’m also into board sports- snowboarding, surfing and paddle-boarding, so I try to find opportunities to do them whenever I can.

Finally, tell us something about you that fans of the Giants won’t know.

I’m battery powered! I got a permanent pacemaker 5 years ago which wasn’t planned. It’s actually helped me to reflect and be grateful for the life I have. I’ve always tried to do exciting stuff but I’m even more inclined to do so now. Carpe diem!

coach info

Name: Dave Rowley

Favourite NFL Team: Green Bay Packers

COACHING:

Unit: Linebackers / Special Teams-Kick Off

University or College: N/A

Years Coaching: 2

Giants Coaching Debut: 2022 versus Manchester Titans

PLAYING (FLAG): Position: Cornerback

Number: 21

University/College Team: N/A

Years Playing: 2

Giants Playing Debut: 2022 versus Rotherham Roosters