**Shaun Edwards Hails Shane Williams as Standout Welsh Star of His Coaching Era**
Former Wales defence coach Shaun Edwards has spoken candidly about the Welsh players who left a lasting impression on him during his tenure, singling out iconic winger Shane Williams as a uniquely inspiring figure. His remarks were made during a recent appearance on the ‘Dare To Be Different’ podcast with long-time colleague and friend Craig White, himself a former British & Irish Lions coach and a personality intimately familiar with Edwards’ coaching philosophy from their days together at London Wasps and in the international arena.
Edwards, now France’s defence coach, looked back at his illustrious career, which has seen him mentor some of rugby’s greats. On the podcast, when prompted by White to reflect on the most motivational players he’s worked with, Edwards did not hesitate to shine a spotlight on Shane Williams. He outlined how Williams’ remarkable attacking prowess made him simply indispensable to the Welsh side during his tenure.
“Shane was the kind of player who had to be picked,” said Edwards. “There was just no way you could leave him out given his sheer brilliance going forward.” Edwards didn’t shy away from highlighting the challenges as well, adding, “It was really down to me to help raise his defensive game to standard, and I have to say he took that challenge head-on. He worked tirelessly at it, and pound for pound, you’d struggle to find anyone stronger.”
Williams’ journey to the top was never straightforward; his comparatively slight stature saw him regularly underestimated in a sport known for its physicality. Yet, according to Edwards, this only sharpened his resolve and commitment. “Unbelievable, wasn’t he? Not everyone is handed every skill, and Shane had to put in the work defensively, deciding when to step in or out. It was a real testament to his determination,” the coach remarked.
During the podcast, White explored whether Edwards saw echoes of his own playing career in Williams, given both players had to outperform expectations based on size. Edwards agreed, referencing his own days as a 12-stone competitor in the thick of the action. “I wasn’t some bone-shaking tackler but, like Andy Gregory, I always put myself on the line for the team when it came to big matches,” Edwards reflected.
Edwards’ thoughtful observations offer a unique insight into what it takes not only to reach the top level in international rugby, but to stay there. His comments make clear that technical ability is only part of the equation—the mental and emotional fortitude to continually evolve is just as crucial.
With the Wales head coach position currently vacant, speculation continues to swirl around who will take the helm. Edwards’ name is frequently raised in discussions, given his proven leadership and tactical acumen. When asked earlier this year by MailOnline about his potential interest, Edwards did not rule out a return, stating, “Any role interests me in the future, because I want to coach for as long as possible, especially in international rugby.”
The coach noted his past successes, referencing his time at Wasps where he lifted the Heineken Cup, the English Premiership and the Anglo-Welsh Cup, as evidence he’s ready for any challenge. “From my experiences and everything I’ve learned from the likes of Fabien Galthié and Warren Gatland, and even studying great football managers, I know I’d be more than capable,” Edwards said. Yet he remains pragmatic: “It doesn’t bother me whether I’m head coach or an assistant, as long as I’m in a role that motivates me and I’m working with committed players.”
As speculation mounts about his next move, Edwards’ words leave little doubt about his passion for the sport and his ongoing desire to instil belief, hard work and excellence in those he coaches. Whether or not he returns to Wales, his impact—especially on players such as Shane Williams—remains a testament to his skill both as coach and mentor.