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Ben Gollings

Men's Fijian 7's Coach, England International World Rugby 7's Record Points Leader

I have known Robin for a long time now as a player and a coach. He was always a very competitive player and we enjoyed some good battles on the field during our playing careers. Off the field and post playing, Robin has become a dedicated coach who thrives on giving his athletes and coaches the best platform to perform off of. He has a great level of knowledge and experience at the international level that he uses to enhance the development of his players. For me which is most important, he has an awesome rapport with his players. He has played an integral part in players like Patrick Kay and  Andrew Battaglia in the Canadian system. He truly loves what he does and is incredibly passionate about the game and its development.

David Mays

International 7's and 15's Coach

I have had the pleasure of knowing Robin for over 15 years now. We played against each other on many occasions and it was obvious from an early age he was a talented athlete, with huge energy totally suited to the Sevens game! Robin has always had a tremendous passion for rugby and its evident from his playing days and now his coaching career, this hasn't changed. As one of his mentors in his playing days, the one thing that impressed me the most about Robin was his willingness to never quit or give up on a dream, whatever the challenge he met it full on with no fear of failure…He has now embraced this in his coaching career and passes on this vision and work ethic to his athletes. The MacDowellRugby academy is a testament to his hard working attitude and his passion to develop the next generation of Canadian athletes. Whoever attends the academy will have the pleasure of working with someone who tirelessly works to improve others…I am really looking forward to seeing the Academy grow from strength to strength and see future Canadian athletes evolve from this region

Patrick Kay

Olympian, Canadian International 7's Player

There are many fine qualities of Coach Robin MacDowell, whom I have known and have been coached by for over eight years. Having family ties with Robin, we have had the opportunity to become very close on and off the rugby pitch. My older brother, who was extremely passionate about rugby, reached out to Robin to gain some expert advice on the sport. After my brother was unfortunately ruled out of playing the sport due to a disastrous brain injury, I was lucky enough to be taken under Robins wing. At that point in my life, a young fifteen years old, I was not quite sure if I would be able to make it as a high level rugby player. Robin made me see my potential and worked with me to achieve it. One of his main strengths is finding potential in young athletes and pushing them to make gains. His enthusiasm is a major strength as a coach. You will never hear a complaint about Robin not being involved or present. He has a very lively and passionate personality. He is someone who will back you one hundred percent if you are dedicated and work hard. Robin has a been a major influence on my rugby career, he made me realize that I was capable to take my game to the next level.

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Thomas Isherwood

Canadian International 7's Player

My recent Canadian International 7s and Premier Rugby Sevens opportunities and many of the stepping stones along the way have been with experienced coach Robin MacDowell playing a large role. He’s played a massive part the last few years, he was my coach with the U18 team that went to the Youth Olympic qualifiers, and he’s always brought me up to play in tournaments for him. He’s just been a great mentor along the way, always putting my name forward … I owe him quite a lot.

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