Eddie Jones Uses Geese Videos to Inspire Japan Ahead of Australia Test

New Delhi, India Aug 13, 2026 ALN: Eddie Jones has revealed an interesting method he uses to coach his Japan side - watching videos of geese fly in formation.

Japan are facing Australia in a two-Test, home and away series this month, and Jones' side were beaten 35-32 by the Wallabies in Osaka last weekend. This match was significant as it marked the beginning of a new chapter for both teams, with Australia looking to establish themselves under new head coach Les Kiss, who took over from Joe Schmidt earlier this year. The defeat for Japan was a tough pill to swallow, especially given the close scoreline and the potential for a different outcome had a few key moments gone their way.

In preparation for the second Test in Townsville, Australia on Saturday (06:15 BST), Jones has made five changes to his lineup, highlighting his willingness to adapt and experiment with his squad. Among the notable selections is university student Yoshitaka Yazaki, who has been chosen to play on the wing, showcasing Jones' commitment to integrating younger talent into the team. Additionally, Shunsuke Uenobo will be making his first start at centre, which speaks to Jones' strategy of instilling fresh energy and perspective into the squad.

Reflecting on the previous match, Jones noted that Japan's support play "wasn't as sharp as we would have liked," which is crucial in a where teamwork and coordination can make or break a game. To address this, he has turned to nature as a teaching tool, specifically the behavior of geese flying in formation. "The reason we watch videos of geese is that the head of the flock is like the ball-carrier," the Australian coach explained. "The ball carrier is king, and then everyone else has got to follow after that." This analogy serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of roles within the team, emphasizing that every player has a responsibility to support the ball-carrier effectively.

The metaphor of geese flying in formation is particularly apt in the context of , where the dynamics of teamwork and support play are paramount. Geese are known for their remarkable ability to fly long distances in a V formation, which not only conserves energy but also allows them to communicate effectively during their migrations. By following the lead goose, the rest of the flock can maintain their speed and direction, which mirrors the necessity for players to respond quickly to the actions of the ball-carrier in a match. This natural phenomenon serves as a visual representation of unity and cooperation, qualities that Jones is keen to instill in his players as they prepare for the challenge against Australia.

In the first Test, Australia managed to overcome an early setback when Miles Amatosero received a red card, which typically would put a team at a disadvantage. However, the Wallabies rallied together to secure their victory, a testament to their resilience and the effectiveness of Kiss's coaching approach. For Japan, the loss was disappointing, but Jones emphasized the importance of learning from the experience and moving forward. With his geese videos in hand, Jones stated, "we've set ourselves the task of really taking it to Australia this week." This determination to improve and adapt is crucial as they prepare for the second Test, where they will seek to demonstrate their growth as a team.

Jones is not the only coach to have used geese to motivate his players. During 26 trophy-laden years at Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson famously employed a similar tactic. He would often pause training sessions to encourage his players to look to the sky and observe the geese overhead. By pointing out the perfect V formation, Ferguson would remind his players that each bird takes its turn to lead during their long migrations. His motivational speeches often culminated in the rallying cry: "Now if they can do that, you can give me 38 games to win the league." This approach not only served to inspire his players but also reinforced the ideals of teamwork and shared responsibility that are essential in any successful ing endeavor.

Ferguson's use of the geese analogy extended beyond football, as he famously recounted this story to Team Europe at the 2014 Ryder Cup. Invited to speak by team captain Paul McGinley, Ferguson's words resonated with the players, who ultimately went on to secure a decisive victory. McGinley later revealed that the phrase "remember the geese" was used throughout the tournament, highlighting the impact of Ferguson's motivational approach. He acknowledged the challenges of managing a team filled with superstars like Rory McIlroy, but Ferguson's ability to connect with each player on a personal level made a significant difference.

In a like , where physicality and strategy intertwine, the lessons drawn from these natural examples can be invaluable. The ability to adapt, communicate, and support one another is vital for success on the field. As Japan prepares for their next encounter with Australia, Jones' innovative coaching methods, including the use of geese videos, underscore his dedication to fostering a cohesive and effective team. The implications of this approach extend beyond mere tactics; they reflect a broader philosophy of leadership and collaboration that can resonate with athletes across various s.

As the second Test approaches, all eyes will be on Japan to see how they respond to their previous defeat. The lessons learned from both the geese analogy and the first match will be put to the test as they seek to improve their performance and secure a victory against a formidable Australian side. The outcome of this match could have significant implications for both teams as they look to build momentum heading into future competitions, including the World Cup, where every match serves as an opportunity to refine skills and strengthen team dynamics.

In conclusion, Eddie Jones' unique coaching style, which incorporates lessons from nature, exemplifies the innovative thinking that is often required in high-stakes s environments. By drawing parallels between the behavior of geese and the dynamics of , he aims to instill a sense of teamwork and responsibility in his players. As Japan gears up for their clash with Australia, the effectiveness of this approach will soon be put to the test, and the community will be watching closely to see how these strategies translate into performance on the field.