EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
in Attack, Practice plans
In very close quarters, the ball carrier can make extra yards by moving to the side of his opponent as long as he is still moving forward. Use this “step zone” to encourage both go forward and stepping. Measure the player on distance made as well as beating the opposite player completely. MORE
in Attack, Rucking & Mauling, Tactics
It is not the “clean” but the ball placement, and what goes before, that is the most important skill to work on in the ruck. Accuracy before and into the contact area and great execution are more important than “emotional” rucking. FOCUS Excellent ball placement comes from ball freedom. The supporting players must know their... MORE
in Practice plans, Rucking & Mauling
Players need to focus on roles beyond their specific job such as what to do once a ruck is won or lost. This session teaches them to be in the right place to respond rapidly to improve continuity of possession and defensive systems. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills
How to train your back three, that is two wingers and full back, to cover in the front line and back line. It uses the pendulum defence which swings so there are at least two players back to cover kicks. MORE
in Rugby drills, Scrums & Lineouts
Use these trigger ideas to improve your lineout jumpers' reactions. It's also useful for lifters because it helps them work on their explosive reactions. MORE
in Rugby drills, Tackling
You’re deep into the season and your team’s tackling is looking ragged. How do you reinvigorate the players? It’s time to initiate a programme of exercises to bring your defence back up to speed… MORE
in Rugby drills, Tackling, U12+
Challenge your defenders to make crucial tackles by using this “spotlight” exercise. With the rest of the squad watching, there will be no hiding place… MORE
in Contact, Footwork and evasion, Practice plans
One of the simplest “weapons” in your attackers’ armoury is the “step and pass”. Here the ball carrier runs toward the defender and, at the last moment before making contact, steps to one side and passes the ball back into the space he has just run from. Meanwhile, a support player is running into the space to receive the ball. MORE
Help your backs communicate, cover and then compete for the high ball under pressure. Creating match-like scenarios develops their ability to identify which areas to cover when receiving kicks. MORE
in Attack, Contact, Practice plans
Do your players have the courage to fight for every 50/50 ball? When the ball is on the ground, players need to react aggressively to win it – before driving forward. 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
