Mark Jones: New Ospreys head coach prepares for Scarlets opener
A move to New Zealand inspired Jones to work under current All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson.
“The family made huge sacrifices by moving to New Zealand,” Jones said.
“I learned a lot there. A lot of the things I believed in here they are already using, so it’s great to think that your philosophies are aligned with some of the best players and teams in the world.
“There were also things that completely changed my perspective on the game.”
As well as working with Robertson, Jones has also been coached by former Wales boss Gareth Jenkins, Nigel Davies, Graham Henry, Steve Hansen and Wayne Pivac.
“To single out anyone here is a disservice; everyone played a role for various reasons,” Jones said.
“I learn something from everyone. I have my own style and you have to be yourself because if you try to be someone else, the mask will slip and people will see through you.
“I am myself and I do it my way.”
So what kind of head coach will Jones become after filling both offensive and defensive roles?
“I’m going to be honest about my work ethic, feedback and be direct,” Jones said.
“That’s all you can ask for from someone and my performance will be based on that. You can’t make any more promises in professional sports.”
