When Zack Test was appointed head coach of the USA Men’s Sevens team, it felt like a full-circle moment. The 36-year-old made his debut for the team in 2009 and stood among the first players to turn professional when rugby sevens was confirmed as a sport in the 2016 Olympic Games. A stalwart of the side, Test took the reins from Simon Amor after the USA’s relegation to HSBC SVNS 2 at the end of the 2024/25 season.
In recent years, the team has experienced significant changes. With the retirement of prolific players like Perry Baker and the experienced Folau Niua, openings are available for new talents to emerge. The possibilities for the team under Test’s leadership are vast and promising.
Test’s appointment marks a smooth transition within the program, as he moved from an assistant role with the women’s team, contributing to their Olympic success, to the head coach position for the men. During a video call, Test radiated enthusiasm and confidence, clearly feeling at home in his new role. “I grew up in this programme,” he shared with RugbyPass, reflecting on his journey in the sport. “I came in as a young 18-year-old that was bright-eyed and bushy-tailed… trying to be the best rugby player I could.”
‘The Greatest Years of My Life’
Test has been a fixture at Chula Vista’s Olympic training center since the sevens program began and served as Emilie Bydwell’s assistant for the past four years. His tenure there included vital contributions on match days and assisting the women’s squad to Olympic bronze in Paris in 2024. Transitioning to a role in men’s coaching means not only a change in office but also a shift in focus, and Test cherishes the time spent with Bydwell. “Those years were just so great,” he remarked, highlighting both the highs and lows faced as a team, which forged strong bonds and valuable lessons.
His three years with Bydwell have been formative, as he observed her nurturing approach and the culture she cultivated within the squad. “Emilie showed me the way of how she does things,” Test noted, acknowledging the insights and teachings he’s integrated into his own philosophy. These were “some of the greatest years of my life,” he affirmed, underscoring the importance of camaraderie and shared experiences in the journey.
‘Chop Wood, Carry Water’
Since his appointment, Test has been busy setting high standards for his players. He introduced a new set of values—bravery, honour, discipline, and commitment—that form the daily benchmarks for players aspiring to excel in a high-performance environment. After a disappointing season marked by relegation, the need for a positive start is essential. Test’s deep understanding of the program and passion as a former player who competed at the 2016 Olympics gives him a unique perspective and drive.
His approach has not been about reinventing the wheel but reinforcing the foundational principles of the program. Test described his philosophy: “It was almost like reinforcing the foundation that was there and introducing a couple of new beams that could make that foundation even more secure.” He emphasizes the importance of the small, balanced steps necessary to build a cohesive and resilient team culture.
Central to his philosophy is the book Chop Wood, Carry Water, which focuses on embracing the journey toward mastery. “As a professional rugby player at sevens, you do kind of the same routines day in and day out,” Test explained. “This book really helps the collective be like, ‘we’re on the path of mastery.’” He believes that every detail matters, and by focusing on these daily routines, the players can progressively improve.
It’s not Test’s first time invoking this philosophy; he employed it as an assistant coach with Major League Rugby team San Diego Legion, guiding them to a successful semi-final appearance in their inaugural season. Now, with years of experience under his belt, Test expresses a newfound comfort in his coaching role. “I’m so much further along than I was there,” he relayed, referencing the wealth of experiences he has gained, from the Olympics to World Cups.
‘What’s the Next Step for Us This Week?’
As the USA Women’s Sevens prepare for their upcoming season in Dubai, Test finds himself with several weeks of preparations ahead of him. Following their relegation to HSBC SVNS 2, the men’s team will begin its campaign in February with aspirations for the World Championship Series in April. In the interim, Test is focused on maximizing every moment with his players, putting immediate goals at the forefront.
Even with the 2028 Olympic Games looming large, Test is resolute in his approach: “We’ve got to do what we need to do this season, because if you look down the road then you’re not looking where your feet are.” He emphasizes the importance of concentrating on the present, setting a solid foundation for the future. “What’s the next step for us this week? What’s the next step next week?” This mindfulness about immediate goals will lay the groundwork for future success.