The Finals. Exclusive interview with Danny Beckett

Over the years, there have been plenty of imitators in the rugby coaching ranks. They say that mimicry, is the highest form of flattery. This brings us to one Daniel C. Beckett. A kid from Kotara, who learnt his craft playing 3rd grade at Hamilton, but then defected to Wanderers to have a good crack at 4th grade. He now finds himself as first grade coach to the minor premiers. The Hornet took the time out to interview Mr. Beckett, after extensive research. We delve into the life and times of Beckett, to see if we can put an end to the rumours, that he has actually based his whole life on his own Australian Idol, Aaron Thompson.

Coach Beckett, Can you explain the reason you have a striking similarity to Aaron Thompson?
Quite simple Hornet, he is actually my twin brother. We, as a family, gave him up for adoption when he was five as Dad couldn't stand his crying and his incessant whinging. Having got to know him as an adult I do see where he was coming from now.

This must have left quite a void in your life?
Not really. It meant I was then the favourite, I got to play 3rd grade for Hamilton at halfback. By the time I was 10 I had completely forgotten about his existence.

Why did you then follow him over to Wanderers?
It was around '05 and Aaron actually had a game of third grade. I ran out onto the field. At the coin toss it was like looking into tinted glass.

You mean a mirror?
No tinted glass. I have an eye problem, that's why I have never really been able to hit my no. 10.
Anyway, I won the toss and immediately Aaron started whinging. It was then all the memories came back. He asked me to join him after the game. At first I was a little hesitant, as I thought to be a Wandereer was to be a proud member of a part of the community I was ashamed of.

Gee, are you anti gay?
No, no, I meant lawyers, doctors and businessmen. At Hamilton we were good catholics, so of course I wouldn't think that way. The catholic church accepts everyone.

Aaron went on to win a first grade premiership as a player, was this something that inspired you?
Everything Aaron does inspires me. To lose his family, and then, get it back. He is my hero. I proudly played fourth grade for Wanderers after that, watching Azza play in the top grade. He knows his footy and I would be a liar to admit any differently. I model my walk on him, the way I speak, and now I have become quite arrogant too. I have developed into a good first grade coach and I pick my players who have the same attitude to Aaron and I.

Very good. Is this why you think Monty Symes is such a good asset on your wing?
Monty's ability to chuck a tantrum is probably second to only Aaron himself. I dropped him a few weeks ago because his complaining became almost non existent. After scoring in Seconds the other day and proclaiming to the whole crowd he was ready for 1's again. He should be there come grand final day.

So the Grand Final is your goal?That's pretty impressive after only one year of coaching.
I did coach with Eddie Jones' cousin last year, everyone forgets. Stevie Lee is a wonderful man. Yes, the Grand Final is my goal, its Aaron's as well. There is nobody that can beat the blue on blues this year. We are really behind each other to get through this.

Are you afraid of the rumours that Aaron will turn his hand to coaching next year if you fail?
I haven't heard those rumours. I don't think Aaron would do that to me. He has made me look so professional from behind the scenes with ideas such as 'the brick,' bringing the merry Sherwood boys into the team, tongue kissing before training, the list goes on. No Aaron wouldn't do that.

You mean Tongue Lashings?
No I mean kissing. Well, Aaron didn't really bring it in, he just reinvented an old tradition. Rob Aston, initially refused, but now he's getting into all the boys. He's a man possessed, when it comes to sharing that big butchers tongue of his. Its got all the club excited. That's why we have so many of the older guys back in second grade. Its even carried over to the recovery and sauna sessions we hold.

We may have to wrap it up there. Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Not really. It should be a romp in King Edward Park for us though.

Thanks for that Aaron, I mean Dan.
Please call me Danny.