People often forget that Origin is simply another game of rugby league at its core. It has 13 players, four subs, coaches, and a ref, just like any other game. However, the referees see it differently, and while it is the same game over 80 minutes, it isn’t the same competition over 27 rounds.
Michael Maguire, who has been officially announced as the Blues coach for the 2023 series, should keep this fact in mind. During Brad Fittler’s reign, the focus was on how much people liked him, but he wasn’t as effective as a rugby league coach. Winning Origin is about picking the best team, having the best tactics, and executing them well on the night.
The difference with Origin is that it’s an all-star game, so there are rarely any weak links. However, there are only three games, and thus, there is no time to build cohesion or sophisticated game plans. Maguire’s background as a club coach suggests that his coaching style hasn’t really changed, but the game has changed around him.
The current generation of players doesn’t respond well to the shouting and discipline that were common in the past. Motivation is crucial in rep footy, and Maguire has demonstrated his abilities as a rep coach since assuming the Kiwis role in 2018. His win percentages have declined over the years, but he still has the potential to bring his experience to the Origin team.
When picking his team, Maguire should focus on picking the best players for the current moment rather than favoring incumbency. He should also work on a solid interchange plan and consider the varying demands of Origin before deciding on his squad. With a strong backroom staff and experienced coaches, Maguire will be under pressure to find the answers to many questions right from the start. If he approaches Origin as the unique rugby league proposition it is, he might find success.