The former London Irish, Bath and Harlequins coach has just taken over as head coach at the Welsh region and can’t wait to get immersed in the rugby culture of the area.
His track record has shown he knows how to spot and nurture young talent and as he looks forward to plotting a return to better times for the Ospreys he wants to give youth its chance along the way.
“This is such a rich area for rugby players and hopefully we can create some young local heroes that people want to come and see. It’s really important to grow your own culture organically from within,” said Booth.
“The best way to do that is with local players. Developing local talent is massively important.”
The Ospreys have a host of young players coming through their ranks, many who have already had first-team experience. Scrum halves Reuben Morgan-Williams and Harri Morgan are both recent Wales U20 caps, as are outside half Cai Evans and centres Tiaan Thomas-Wheeler Keiran Williams.
Keelan Giles is another youngster ready to fulfil his full potential on the wing after recovering from injury, while up front lock Will Griffiths and hooker Dewi Lake are both very highly rated. No 8 Morgan Morris has also played 17 times, despite being only 21.
Despite being “institutionalised in the English Premiership” Booth admits to loving the change of rugby culture. He will get his first taste of Welsh derby action when the Guinness PRO14 returns next month to with two rounds of domestic hostilities.
“This is a great opportunity for me to get out and experience something new – the Welsh attitude to the game and the passion for their national sport,” said Booth.
“As an Englishman, I’ve been on the end of some of the banter around matches between Wales and England. Some of my best friends from my university days live in Ogmore and I love all the passion that comes with it.
“I’ve had the chance to watch a lot of the Ospreys performances during lockdown and it is clear there has been a lot of hard work, effort and intent. It showed me how much they care and that gives me a great base from which to move forward.
“This is a new beginning for us all.”
