EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
In rugby, footwork and evasion skills are the “fine arts” – ways to run with the ball and beat players with skill, pace and panache. These articles include ways to coach players to have “rugby speed” not just pace, and evade contact with nifty “rugby footwork”. Try one of the footwork and evasion drills below at your next session and see how you get on.
in Contact, Footwork and evasion, Rugby drills
The best players use footwork before the tackle. But if they have to go through close contact, they lean forward and drive through with short, powerful steps. Replicate these skills with these drills. MORE
in Footwork and evasion, Passing & Handling, Rugby drills
Taking a pass close to the defensive line needs the receiver to step away from the contact, and quickly. If they have a supporting player behind them, they can also step and pass into the space they left behind. Use this exercise to develop the footwork, handling and support skills needed. MORE
in Footwork and evasion, Rugby drills
In congested areas, a strong grip on the ball will make it easier to manipulate it and ensure it doesn’t get dislodged. Use this activity to work on footwork and grip at the same time… MORE
in Footwork and evasion, Rugby drills, U10+
The receiver often takes a pass just before being tackled. If he can get to the edge of the defender, he might break through or offload the ball in contact. Work on that valuable skill with this session. MORE
in Footwork and evasion, Rugby drills
Using a range of evasion skills to beat defenders. To warm up, put players in pairs, facing each other. Using quick feet movements, each player has to get behind and face their partner’s back to win. Main practice: Lay out a 10m box. Line up attackers facing defenders across the box. When the ball... MORE
in Footwork and evasion, Rugby drills
Take a pass under pressure, step away and beat another opponent. MORE
in Footwork and evasion, Passing & Handling, Rugby drills
Develop your players’ ability to take the ball on the run, change direction immediately and then pass the ball either left or right quickly. This activity is all about carrying the ball in two hands. MORE
in Attack, Fitness & Conditioning, Footwork and evasion
Combine footwork, support, passing and decision-making skills in a highly pressurised activity. MORE
in Footwork and evasion, Rugby drills
Beating an opponent with a late change of direction is a priceless skill. As soon as the defender is set to tackle, the last step is key to taking the ball carrier out of his reach and past him into space… MORE
in Footwork and evasion, Rugby drills
Evasive running is among the hardest things to teach because you have to be part rugby coach, part sprint coach and part SAQ expert. Use this activity to make real improvements in your players’ footwork. MORE
