Edwards, who has also led Wales U20 and Wales 18 along with coaching the Dragons and Bath in recent years, has reaffirmed his coaching philosophies through working with Wales Women.
“I believe it’s vital to treat the players as people first and foremost and your coaching will follow. Working with the women has confirmed that to me over the last month or so.
“It has been a refreshing challenge, having never coached in the women’s game, and one I’ve thoroughly enjoyed. I hope they’ve enjoyed having me too!
“I’ve been so impressed with the commitment of the players to the programme, especially given everything they have going on right now with work, family and the added demands of the game due to the pandemic. Despite this, they come to every session well-prepared and I’ve been blown away by their professionalism. They have also established themselves in their Allianz 15s sides – playing in that league will be a game changer for them.”
Edwards believes culture is vital to any team’s success and has concentrated on that aspect in recent weeks.
“Building relationships with each other and good interaction with the coaching staff is key to how teams progress and grow. We’ve been working on strengthening all those bonds a lot in recent weeks. Even though I’m only here for one game, I want to leave the squad in a good place as they go on towards the World Cup next year. Every player is going to have a role in a tournament like that and we have to look out for each other.”
In terms of the Scotland game, there is a clear determination to finish the Six Nations on a high.
“Everyone in the camp was really disappointed the Scotland game was called off so there is a sense of unfinished business. Scotland will have an advantage having played France on the weekend and the draw will have given them a boost too.
“It’s unique being a one-off, Six Nations match and first and foremost, everyone throughout the squad and coaches is determined to put in a committed performance.
“Most players have had one or two matches with their Allianz 15s clubs which has been vital to get them ready for international rugby.
“We’ve had obstacles as I’m sure most squads have at the moment with some players having to isolate and others fighting back from injury but we are doing everything possible to ensure we get to Sunday safe and well, and while we all want to produce a good performance on Sunday, whatever happens in this match will provide some foundations for the next 12 months.”
