BBC Rugby Union: Bath’s Rise and the Van Graan Effect

When reflecting on Bath’s illustrious rise to the top of English rugby during the 80s and 90s, one man stands out as a key driver of the club’s culture and performances – former England flanker John Hall.

The Bath backrower should have earned many more than the 21 Test caps he managed, but injuries, particularly a troublesome knee, curtailed his international career despite being a shoo-in for selection when fit. Phenomenally strong and lightning quick for a man of 6’3″ and 17 stone, the All Blacks cited Hall as England’s best player on the 1985 tour, where he put in some enormous displays.

However, it was in the blue, black, and white of Bath where Hall truly thrived, making 277 appearances and scoring 87 tries. He won five championships as a player and one as Director of Rugby, underscoring his immense contribution to the club, which continues to this day as Bath’s President and Chairman of Bath Rugby Heritage.

As the club faces a Premiership Final showdown with Northampton Saints, Hall beams with pride, attributing much of Bath’s recent resurgence to the work of Director of Rugby Johann van Graan, who joined in 2021.

“What impressed me most about Johann is that he arrived with a clear plan and absolute clarity on what needed to be done,” Hall said. “Bath were in turmoil at that point, but Johann kept his counsel, implemented gradual changes, and trusted the process, even during a difficult initial period.”

Hall admires Van Graan’s methodical approach, rooted in technical analysis, and his ability to instill trust and honesty – values that Hall believes are essential for great teams. “He genuinely loves Bath, the players, and the environment, and that makes people buy into him and believe in him,” he added.

Understanding the club’s rich heritage and its role in the local community is also crucial, and Hall believes Van Graan has embraced these wider values brilliantly.

As Bath prepare for the Premiership Final, Hall is confident in the team’s ability to overcome the slight underdog status and defeat Northampton Saints. “Winning the Premiership is all about sticking to our plans and process, the Van Graan way, the way that’s got us to where we are,” he said.

With their rich history, strong community ties, and the guiding hand of Johann van Graan, Bath are poised to write the next chapter in their storied legacy.

🔗 Source