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.
At every World Cup so far, the winning team has conceded the fewest tries per game over the tournament. Defence is all about teamwork and trust. It needs to be worked on in almost every training session. An effective defence is a simple defence, and nothing could be simpler and more effective than “Magic 3s”. MORE
in Defence, Rugby coaching videos
Read the attacking play to prevent an extra attacker joining the line late and breaking through. Ideal to develop defensive cohesion and decision making. MORE
in Defence, Rugby coaching videos, Rugby drills, Tackling
Use this drill to work on tackle technique, first and foremost, and the speed and formation of the defensive line. It focuses on head-on driving tackles with aggression and good timing. MORE
in Contact, Defence, Rugby coaching, Tackling
A stationary defender will invariably lose the battle of the gain line. However, this defender can stop a powerful ball carrier who’s running directly at him by soaking up the force with a wrap tackle. Here’s how... MORE
in Attack, Defence, Rugby drills, U10+
Combine a competitive passing drill and a game to switch your players on and get them working hard on both technical and tactical aspects of their game. Use this activity to replicate game tempo. MORE
in Contact, Defence, Rugby coaching, Tackling, Team Management
Some players find it hard to control their emotions, in training and in matches. Here are ways to build a calmer player without reducing their enthusiasm and drive to succeed. MORE
in Defence, Email Newsletters, Rugby drills, Tackling
With the 2019 World Cup final only two days away, there's never been a better time for coaches to show players what's happening at the top end of the game. And then to put some of these into practice during training and into matches. MORE
Build a defence ethic by defending in threes and fours. Players will have to cover narrow and wide spaces, improving their tackling and communication. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills, Tactics
Get your defensive structure right at the breakdown to ensure you don’t give away easy metres. Your players need to know their responsibilities to stop opponents “going through the guts”. MORE
Katleho Lynch is a South Africa U17s elite development coach. His passionate about defence training U18s teams at schools, plus working with provinces, clubs and universities. He has learned his trade from all parts of the rugby world and brings his energy and purpose into his sessions. In this podcast, he outlines: The key techniques... MORE
