EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
in Rugby drills, Tackling
Tacklers need to feel confident that the right technique works. This is more difficult when they are practising with static targets. Part of the reason why a ball carrier goes to ground is that they are unbalanced, and so it's much easier to bring a moving player down to the ground. MORE
in Defence, Practice plans, Tackling
Wrapping up the ball carrier in a smother tackle stops them passing or presenting the ball on their terms. It also slows the attack down, letting your defence get organised. There is the added opportunity to regain the ball if the tackler can pull the player down and turn them to your side. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills, Tackling
Kneeling rugby is a low impact contact game which is ideal to learn to tackle. It's one of my favourites because I've seen my players using it unprompted on other occasions (in their homes or in small areas in gardens). MORE
in Attack, Backs moves, Practice plans
Dummy scissors pass (DSP) is a simple move that can be used by all the players, not just the back line. It is still used by the top sides in a number of situations. These teams have added extra decoy runners and other variations, but at the core is the DSP. This move will add an attacking edge to your team from all phases. MORE
in Rugby drills
The better your players can carry the ball, the more chance they’ll be able to retain it in contact or pass it under pressure. So help them improve their holding and handling skills with these five top tips… MORE
in Contact, Rugby drills
Develop your players' presentation skills after the contact. Here, the player has to place the ball back effectively to their teammates after the contact. MORE
in Attack, Rugby drills
A fast number 8 can be launched off the back of the scrum into the backline. Here’s how to exploit this. Place three tackle tubes in a T-Shape (or use cones or ruck pads). Have your number 8 (or any forward) stand at the bottom of the T with a defender on the right-hand side... MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills
Coming in the defensive line at speed needs the players to react to possible changes in angles by attackers or late entry into the line. Use this activity to work on awareness and footwork… Good line speed tends to increase pressure on the attack but it can cause problems for the defenders unless they can react quickly to last moment changes in the attackers. This activity keeps defenders on their toes and moving forward MORE
So, you start your session with a game of touch rugby. Who doesn't love that! Then, you want to break out into some skills. To keep the tempo going, you should involve some decision-making elements. 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
