EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
From my experience even basic backs moves, like a miss pass, loop or switch, need careful consideration. Not least because there are crucial variations you can make to suit your team’s strengths. During the match the players then have to understand the purpose of the move – why this move here and now? Use the backs moves below to turn your back row into a deadly attacking force.
in Backs moves, Rugby coaching
There’s a lot more to being a backs coach than telling the three-quarters to practise a few moves. So when you split the squad into forwards and backs, what are the essentials that you must cover? MORE
Use this simple play from a scrum or even in open play to attack the middle of a defensive line. It's a centre switch. Note the exact running lines and when to deliver the pass. MORE
in Backs moves, Passing & Handling
The final scoring pass is very important but ensuring the ball gets to the key passer at the right time is just as important if you want your team to score more tries from passing. This activity starts the process before you put in a defensive line. MORE
in Backs moves
Here's a great score by Abi Dow from Wasps Ladies rugby last season. And we've got this move in detail on our site for you to try too. MORE
in Attack, Backs moves, Rugby drills
Test out how well the players read the defence from a backs play, and still make headway even if they choose the wrong option. MORE
Run backline moves in a competitive format to force players to run the correct lines under pressure. It is best run as a unit skills session with the backs. ACTIVITY Two backlines run a move against each other, with the perceived pressure coming from someone running towards you The 9s run around their cones before... MORE
in Backs moves
Best from Anywhere outside your 22. Either a scrum or lineout. It’s easy to set up from a second phase but is not good against tight defence. Why it works Defences tend to drift out more after a pass from 10. This attacks “against the grain” even more than a “10-12 switch”. It straightens the... MORE
in Backs moves
Best from Anywhere on the pitch. It creates the illusion of a short pass, but is an effective way of getting the ball wide. Why it works The move buys time for 13, especially against a “rush/blitz defence”. The defenders will hold their runs based on 12 and will slow to tackle him. The pass... MORE
in Backs moves
Best from Between the 22m lines and just inside the opposition 22. This is a “strike” move which can be used when defenders are tired, or from second phase when there may be “props” in the midfield defence. Why it works The “miss pass” and “outside arc” of 13 draws the defenders onto 13, stretching... MORE
in Backs moves
Best from The opposition half and close to the try line. It’s a great move for big 15s to hit the line and ride a tackle to score under the posts. If 12 moves quickly enough and has posed a threat already then the space should open up enough for this to happen. Why it... MORE
Like other disciplines, rugby has a jargon of its own. Unless the meanings are explained they can be meaning-less. That's why I've explained them in plain, simple English and with large, clear illustrations in my manual Rugby Tactics Made Simple. But not only that, you'll learn how to coach the tactics with my tips. If you’re new to coaching or prefer a more simple style this is a great, straightforward introduction to rugby tactics. "It highlights the key fundamentals of all aspects of play & gives coaches a good understanding of terminology and techniques at the highest level" - Richard Whiffin, assistant coach at London Irish MORE
Anxious about coaching rugby to children? Maybe you're already coaching, but sometimes struggling to get your points across at training? Perhaps you sometimes simply run out of preparation time? Possibly you're feeling your sessions are getting dull? Do you want a few new skills to boost your player's skills now? Or to help your players develop the techniques for seasons ahead? Maybe even the core skills for their whole rugby playing career? Here's the answer... MORE
Ready-made, age-appropriate, safe training activities, to provide a complete rugby coaching curriculum for players from ages 11 - 16. MORE
