Support from rugby sevens specialist

New Zealand sevens coach Gordon Tietjens did not dismiss the idea of helping the Cook Islands Sevens side after his time with the Kiwi team ends.

Tietjens, who arrived on Friday, gave a group of Caltex retail owners a ‘pep talk’ of sorts at a national conference held at the Rarotongan Hotel and Resort to inspire them.

”I gave a speech to the leadership group, talking about creating a working culture,“ Tietjens revealed.

Having led the New Zealand Sevens team to an impressive 10 IRB Sevens World Series titles – including the most recent event in 2011-12 – Tietjens is easily the most successful coach in the game. But it is another milestone that stars in Tietjens’ highlights reel.

”The four Commonwealth Games gold medals are my favourite because they represent the sport of rugby amongst the bigger sports.

”To stand on the podium and hear your national anthem play, there’s nothing better.“

Outside of his speaking duties, the coach has been able to get some swimming, tennis and fishing under his belt.

Tietjens didn’t rule out working in the Cook Islands once his coaching career has ended after the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro – just do not expect him to take the helm.

”I have had lots of opportunities as you can imagine. China, the USA – they’ve asked me several times to go over but I could never coach against New Zealand.

”I’d have no problem in coming over [to the Cook Islands] and offering resource support.“

Tietjens will be able to tell of his mahimahi-catching exploits to the new Sevens team when they assemble for a three-day camp on Monday.