Beyond his psychological insights, Mitchell also brings energy and creativity to training.
John Mitchell has brought a unique and deeply personal approach to coaching England’s Red Roses, showing a level of care and understanding that has resonated with his players. Since taking over in 2023 after a long career in the men’s game, Mitchell has earned praise from forwards Sarah Bern and Abbie Ward, as well as fly-half Holly Aitchison, for his supportive and compassionate leadership.
Holly Aitchison highlighted Mitchell’s emphasis on personal connection, telling Rugby World magazine, “The main difference is how much he cares about us as people. He wanted to know me as a person before he cared about what I did on the pitch. He wants to understand you so he can get the best out of you.”
Mitchell’s approach has been influenced by his own family. His daughter is a psychologist, and his son, Daryl, is a cricketer for New Zealand. He has applied lessons from both of them in his coaching style.
“He told me a bit about his son and how he’s into psychology, which really sparked his interest in it,” Holly shared. “He’s noticeably invested in that with us. He’s taken that from his son and had a lot of conversations with me about how you can help yourself off the pitch.”
Beyond his psychological insights, Mitchell also brings energy and creativity to training. Abbie Ward praised his ability to make sessions engaging and memorable.
“He brings so much energy to the programme,” she said. “He’ll be so theatrical—it might be a bit off-the-wall, but it makes the point.”
Sarah Bern recounted one particularly entertaining training session where Mitchell fully committed to an acting role to inspire his players.
“The coaching staff had to act it out and bring it to life,” she said. “I don’t want to get in trouble for saying too much, but he came in wearing a full American boxing outfit—shirt off, silky robe, and boxing shorts! He told us how we had to beat the USA team. There was a whole boxing scenario, and it was great because you really remember it.”
Mitchell’s ability to blend psychological insight with dynamic and engaging coaching methods has made a lasting impact on the Red Roses, helping to foster a strong and motivated team environment. His dedication to both the mental and physical aspects of the game continues to shape England’s women’s rugby team in a unique and powerful way.
