NSW Waratahs introduce strict new policy to help move on after defeats

In a unique approach to mentally overcoming defeat, the Waratahs have been given a time limit to discuss a losses before shifting focus to their next opponents.

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 15: Waratahs players look dejcted after conceding a try during the round five Super Rugby match between the Brumbies and the Waratahs at GIO Stadium on March 15, 2019 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

• Axed Sunwolves could face humilation in 2020
• Six Nations issue warning ahead of World Cup

Thirty minutes of moaning; that is all the Waratahs are allowed following a loss and thereafter, they’re never to speak of it again.

The unique approach to mentally overcoming defeat was revealed by NSW backrower Lachlan Swinton after the Tahs suffered a shock defeat to the Brumbies in Canberra.

“We have a general rule at the Tahs, we have a 30-minute [rule] where we’re able to dwell on the loss, and everything after that, we’re on to next week’s game thinking about that,” Swinton said. “So we’ve highlighted the areas we need to work on and we’ve moved on to next week.”

The Waratahs have implented a ‘whinge rule’ to help them move on from losses. Picture: Getty Images

There is no set penalty for any player caught dwelling on a loss after the 30-minute window has elapsed.

“No punishment at all, it’s just a general rule to get your headspace correct,” Swinton said.

“The game is done, there’s no point thinking about it, expect for the areas you can work on.

“Especially for a young bloke like me it is hard to do, learning from the older players and seeing how they cope and deal with it.

“As a group we do not physically speak about it after 30 minutes.”

That does not eliminate the internal sting from a loss, however.

Lachlan Swinton is looking forward to his first clash against the Crusaders. Picture: Getty Images

The Waratahs are aiming to become the first team in more than one year to defeat the Crusaders; the Christchurch team has not lost a game since March 17, 2018.

“It is another game, I haven’t personally versed them myself, but you do have to acknowledge the fact that they are a world-class team,” Swinton said.

“They do bring a little bit extra with their skillset and their accuracy around the park. We’ve identified and acknowledged that, and we have areas we’re going to put in place to make sure we put the best performance in possible on Saturday.”