Gerry Thornley: Celebrate Joe Schmidt with a Heartfelt Farewell at Aviva Stadium

Joe Schmidt is set to bid farewell as he prepares to leave his coaching role with the Wallabies. His departure marks a significant moment in rugby history, especially given his profound impact on the teams he has coached, including Leinster, Ireland, and Australia.

Joe Schmidt: A Legacy in Rugby

Schmidt arrived in Dublin recently accompanied by Wallabies team manager Chris Thompson. The warm greetings he received from locals showcased his enduring connection to Ireland, despite having moved on from his previous coaching roles. He stated, “It’s just a really nice feeling, like you’re kind of home.”

Transition to the Wallabies

Schmidt joined the Wallabies as head coach last season and is now preparing for his final match this Saturday, likely marking his 45th and last game in this capacity. As he reflects on his time with Australia, he believes the team is progressing, even as some fans exhibit impatience with the pace of improvement.

• Leinster Achievements: Under Schmidt, Leinster played nine games at the Aviva Stadium, winning eight of them.
• Ireland’s Performance: Schmidt’s tenure saw Ireland play 34 matches at the Aviva, winning 28, drawing one, and losing five.
• Wallabies Record: His record with Australia stands at one game played, zero wins, and one loss.

Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Reflections

As Schmidt prepares to move on, he expressed a desire to spend more time with his family, particularly with his youngest son, Luke. He shared his plans to enjoy leisure time, including playing golf and spending time with friends.

He expressed a desire to return to the Aviva Stadium in the future, not as a coach but as a fan. Schmidt reminisced about the moments he spent in traffic, observing fans outside the stadium enjoying their time. “One day I’m going to get amongst those people,” he said.

Schmidt’s Impact on Irish Rugby

Reflecting on his coaching legacy, Schmidt’s influence remains evident among current players and coaches. Notably, Johnny Sexton remarked, “Joe taught us how to win,” highlighting Schmidt’s lasting impact on Irish rugby.

As he prepares to leave, Schmidt acknowledges that his connection to Ireland will always endure. He is and will always be known simply as Joe in this rugby-loving nation. His departure from the Wallabies is more than a farewell; it’s a celebration of a remarkable coaching career.

Coaching Records Summary