Cold Conditions, Clear Vision: Bryan Easson Begins His Oranje Journey

By Dutch Rugby Magazine

Today, Dutch Rugby Magazine caught up with Netherlands Head Coach Bryan Easson on the sidelines of a bitterly cold Amsterdam Rugby Stadium. Snow lay across the artificial turf, the temperature biting, yet neither players nor coaching staff appeared bothered. If anything, the conditions felt symbolic challenging, unforgiving, and demanding clarity of purpose.

Bryan Easson has already started 2026 on a high. Earlier this month, he hosted a meet-and-greet with coaches from across the Netherlands, setting the tone for collaboration and alignment. This weekend marked the final day of a demanding training block, and despite the weather and the workload, the atmosphere remained focused and positive.

Standing pitch-side, Easson is unmistakably hands-on. He moves constantly, engaging with coaches and players alike, reinforcing standards while encouraging ownership. There is a clear emphasis on buy-in, not just compliance a coaching style rooted in trust, communication, and shared responsibility.

Like any effective coach, Easson understands that performance starts with understanding people.

“I want a shared vision of what the Dutch DNA is. We want to play a style that suits the nation,”

— Bryan Easson

That vision is not imposed. Instead, it is shaped collaboratively. One of the most striking aspects of Easson’s early tenure is his open-door approach. He makes time for everyone  players, coaches, and staff  creating an environment where voices are heard and ideas are valued.

“I’m not a hierarchy coach. I want us to work together,”

— Easson

Listen To Full Interview: https://youtu.be/4_-c1ISle1A?si=n3n7gRq34fOMwME5

As preparations begin for the Rugby Europe Championship (REC), integration has become a central theme. Super Cup coaches are working closely with the national setup, ensuring alignment between club and country. The goal is clear: embed key fundamentals early, establish consistency, and build a shared rugby language that benefits both players and coaches.

The workload has been heavy, two days, four trainings, and an overload of information, yet the response from players has been encouraging. Energy levels remain high, questions are being asked, and engagement is evident. There is a sense that this group is already buying into Easson’s methods and the direction he is setting.

In freezing conditions, with snow underfoot and breath visible in the air, Dutch rugby took another step forward. The environment may have been cold, but the vision is clear and momentum is quietly building.