It’s a sunny Thursday afternoon in Nairobi and a smooth delicious smoothie is a welcome nutritious coolant. A relaxed Paul Treu sits on the opposite end of the table quite unexpected given the busy week he has had since coming back to the country.
He is quick to indicate that the feeling that he has ticked a box these past few days is enough to have him relax during a meal. A midst the chit chat, I request for a quick interview in between bites and sips!
At that moment I thought to myself, if the ‘why’ is so strong then the ‘how’ will take care of itself. – Paul Treu.
How would you introduce yourself?
Paul: I’m a husband and father. A former player and coach of the South Africa Sevens Team. I’m now the Performance Director and Head Coach of the Kenya Sevens Team.
When did you fall in love with rugby?
Paul: I was born into rugby. I have 6 brothers who all played rugby. My dad played rugby too. During the apartheid years rugby became the only thing to do for many of the youth. I remember starting off playing on the streets with balls made out of polythene bags since most of us could not afford the resources. At that young age we learnt and grew into the values of rugby – integrity, passion, discipline, teamwork and excellence. My mother was very supportive and my brothers influenced my rugby.
What other sport would you play apart from rugby?
Paul: NONE! Although there was this one time back in school I stopped playing rugby for a year to play table tennis. I had a bet with 2 of my buddies who dared me to beat them at table tennis so I didn’t stop till I beat them!
What are your hobbies?
Paul: I love reading about business and sport. I also enjoy meeting prominent people, giving motivational talks and watching cricket. I enjoy watching movies with my family and swimming.
What’s your family’s take on the demands of your job?
Paul: My wife is my greatest supporter and I respect her for keeping the family together despite my job demands. Its very challenging being away from them but when my lady gave me the okay to work in Kenya I have since found ways to maximize the time I spend with her and my 2 daughters. My girls are my #1 fans and they remind me on every tour!
I look forward to having them here in Kenya for a ‘Safari’
Why did you choose Kenya?
Paul: The players. I recall my initial visit to Kenya way before I had resigned from SARU. I met the players at RFUEA and I remember Amonde telling me,” We want to be #1 in the world.” At that moment I thought to myself, if the ‘why’ is so strong then the ‘how’ will take care of itself.
How are you coping with the different structures in Kenya?
Paul: I’m working with KRU to fast track on creating synergy between the junior and senior players. It will take time but now I’m working with what is available to get what is attainable.
What would you describe as the highlight of your playing career?
Paul: Winning the Wellington 7s in 2002.
How was the transition from player to coach?
Paul: It was challenging coaching some of the players I played with. My teaching background was very helpful.
What would you describe as the highlight of your coaching career?
Paul: They are many ranging from winning Singapore ’04, George 7s ’08 to winning the World Series in ’09.
You interact a lot with Kenyans on twitter. What’s your social media policy?
Paul: I’m a very private person and opening a twitter account was a step towards being accessible to the Kenyan fans. The social media trend I’m experiencing is unique to Kenya. I enjoy the interaction and welcome the criticism I get.
More friends join in and the conversation takes a turn hence the end of the interview. Any questions for the coach? Leave a comment and we’ll sure have him answer you right back!
