EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
An extra split second of pressure on the opposition can be the difference between success and failure. Rugby defence is not just about defensive systems. The best defensive teams enjoy defending. They are positive in defence and loud and accurate with their communication. So, does your rugby team see defence as a chore or as a great chance to win back the ball? Use the defence drills below to get your team working together to form a more cohesive defensive unit.
in Defence, Rugby drills
If each player knows their role, you should be able to mark all the attacking options from a scrum. Use these exercises to connect your defensive backline and forwards with your scrum-half. MORE
in Defence, Kicking & Catching, Rugby drills
Putting the squeeze on a kicker clearing his lines can reap rewards. Here’s how to charge down kicks from the base of a ruck or scrum. MORE
Keep tackling practices fresh with new ways to improve the players' basic techniques. Put them into unusual situations in training which tend to reflect the game-like scenarios they may face. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills, Tackling
Here are some interesting tackling exercises from the French Rugby Federation. For more tackling exercises, drills and session plans why not try out: MORE
in Defence, Rucking & Mauling, Rugby drills
Make sure your defence is in place quickly so they can come forward to make snare tackles and poach the ball. Define roles for players around the ruck so they can race off the line and cut down the opposition attack close to the ruck. MORE
A tackler is part of the whole defence. A defence is not always breached because a tackle has been missed, but when a defender is not in the right place. Therefore, players must work on their individual technique while co-operating with team mates to reduce attack options. This session develops this mindset. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills
With the breakdown such a contentious area and laws favouring the attack, organised defence is vital. The breakdown is the start point for defence so it can dominate the attack. The easiest and most obvious place to attack is immediately around the ball after a tackle. By using this activity you can cut down easy attacking metres and set a solid foundation for defending. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills, Tackling
Improve the speed to and over the ball by the first arriving defender (the jackler), making sure he remains on his feet and in a strong position to resist pressure from the incoming attackers. MORE
in Defence, Footwork and evasion, Practice plans
Use boxing-style footwork and arm movements to improve your players’ tackling. The players stay light on their feet, keep their arms active before “punching” like a jab towards the ball carrier, arms going to the side, shoulder engaging and head going into the side. MORE
in Attack, Defence, Practice plans
There are many one-on-one races in a match. One is for the space around the ball carrier as he arrives at contact. Remove his options to pass and he has to go to ground. Win the race to get over the ball and then there is a chance of a turnover. This sessions looks at attack and defence options in support. 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
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