During his tenure with the Stormers from 2016 to 2019, Fleck encountered Rennie’s Chiefs on three notable occasions, with mixed results. These matches, including a dramatic quarter-final, showcased Rennie's tactical acumen which led his teams to multiple Super Rugby titles before he took over the Glasgow Warriors and later the All Blacks.
Speaking on the 'Boks Unpacked X The Verdict' podcast alongside former Springboks Jean de Villiers and Hanyani Shimange, Fleck opened up about his experiences and observations of Rennie’s coaching style.
"He’s probably the best I know. I went and did some professional development with him when he was head coach at Glasgow, and he’s my favourite coach of all time."
Fleck detailed the hallmark characteristics of a team guided by Rennie, highlighting the intensity and physicality with which his teams play. The term 'brutality' was specifically used by Rennie to describe his approach, focusing on the physical contest as a crucial element of his game plan.
"The key ingredient for Dave Rennie is physicality. He builds his whole game around it, and he calls it ‘brutality’. You sit and listen to this guy speak and everything is about being brutal – collisions, the breakdown, the tackle. Everything is a fight. As soon as you give an inch to the opposition, you’re losing the game."
Fleck noted that these traits would be particularly emphasized in the upcoming four-Test series between the Boks and New Zealand, which begins at Ellis Park. He pointed out Rennie's meticulous emphasis on set-pieces and possession as pivotal to winning this high-stakes series.
Reflecting on Rennie’s influence over his teams, Fleck commented on the physical stature of the players Rennie selected for the tour, indicative of his strategy to physically overpower opponents. This selection underscores Rennie's commitment to a game defined by strength and assertiveness.
Rounding off, Fleck celebrated Rennie's deep understanding of rugby's intricacies, which has been evident in every team he has coached. This imprint of Rennie’s philosophy is what Fleck believes marks a truly effective coach—one who leaves a lasting impact on every team he leads.
With the stage set for a monumental clash between two rugby titans, the insights from a former rival coach like Robbie Fleck provide a unique perspective on what to expect from Dave Rennie’s All Blacks as they prepare to face the Springboks in what promises to be a riveting series.
