Gareth Gilbert

Director of Rugby

Discover the driving force behind Aspire Academy's rugby excellence. His coaching odyssey took root in the Netherlands, leaving an indelible mark on Dutch rugby.

Accomplishments

Director of Rugby at Rugby Netherlands
Head Coach of the Mens Dutch National Team and the U20 team (winning the Europeans)
Head Coach of the Dutch Ladies Sevens Olympic Campaign
Director of Rugby at Rugby Academy MiddenOost (transforming the program by introducing ASPIRE)
Director of Rugby at Rugby Club 't Gooi

Gareth Gilbert

Director of Rugby

Discover the driving force behind Aspire Academy's rugby excellence. His coaching odyssey took root in the Netherlands, leaving an indelible mark on Dutch rugby.

Gareth Gilbert, originally from South Africa, brings a wealth of experience and a passion for rugby development to Aspire Academy.

Starting his journey as a player ultimately playing for the Botswana National Team, Gareth later transitioned into coaching, leaving an indelible mark on Dutch rugby.

As a coach, Gareth has played pivotal roles in various capacities, coaching Rugby Club ‘t Gooi, leading the Ladies 7 Olympic Campaign, and eventually becoming the Head Coach for the Men’s Team at Rugby Netherlands. His exceptional coaching skills and strategic vision earned him the position of Technical Director of Rugby NL.

After an enriching experience abroad, Gareth returned to the Netherlands, coaching ‘t Gooi and serving as the Director of Rugby at the Rugby Academy MiddenOost. His dedication and coaching prowess were further recognized when he was appointed as the Head Coach for the National U20 squad. Under his guidance, the team achieved historic victories, winning the European U20 Championships.

Gilbert, along with colleagues Zane Gardiner and Mathiew Cripps, played a crucial role in designing the initial ASPIRE program for rugby academies in the Netherlands.

Rooted in the belief that developing values first leads to better players, coaches, and leaders, Gareth emphasizes the importance of personal growth on and off the field. His overarching purpose is to shape the lives of young aspiring individuals, fostering excellence in both rugby and life.

The Excel National Training Centre Program

The Excel National Training Centre Program, is Gareth’s favorite program he participates in. It boasts an exceptional staff, the best in the country. The program attracts the best players as well. Conducting it at the iconic Olympic Stadium is truly amazing. The experience has a profound impact on all participants, both players and coaches, reaching places inside he didn’t know existed

New Season 01-09-'25

The Excel National Training Centre Program

Elevate your game with our Excel training program for Elite Rugby players at the iconic Olympic Stadium in Amsterdam. The ENTC is specifically designed for Rugby Academy gratuates and/or National Team level players.

Olympic Stadium Amsterdam

Excel

Full-time

Players

Gareth Gilbert - Director of Rugby

Interview

Why have you founded Aspire Academy?

First as Director of Rugby at Rugby NL, I detected a significant gap in high-performance training programs. While the six academies in NL cater well to creating rugby talents, the challenge arises post high school, where academy programs cease. This leaves talented individuals with two choices - either go abroad for studies and play, or return to their clubs with significantly fewer training hours. Aspire Academy aims to provide a continuous improvement path for players and coaches, offering individual programs or extensive excellence programs like ENTC. I am supportive of players and coaches gaining international exposure, but it must be in programs that prioritize learning and growth, not merely serving as tackle bags. Aspire has carefully selected international partners to ensure a safe environment for everyone to benefit from these experiences.

What is the ultimate aim you would like to achieve with Aspire Academy?

The ultimate goal is to create a place that stands as the pinnacle of Dutch rugby in terms of development and growth. I envision it becoming internationally renowned, attracting players and coaches from around the world. I believe that's the only way to achieve continuous improvement - as individuals and as a nation

What advice would you like to give to emerging players and coaches?

Aim to be the best version of yourself. It might sound like a cliché, but it's genuinely one of the hardest things to accomplish. Treat every obstacle as a gift that helps you become better at what you do. Reflect on the words of the great Marcus Aurelius, "The obstacle is the way." It's a profound perspective worth contemplating.

What is your favorite program of Aspire Academy?

The Excel National Training Centre Program, without a doubt. It boasts an exceptional staff, the best in the country. The program attracts the best players as well. Conducting it at the iconic Olympic Stadium is truly amazing. The experience has a profound impact on all participants, both players and coaches, reaching places inside you didn't know existed.