EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
Start off passing in any direction to keep possession while defenders pressurise, then call a numbered try line. Attackers have to realign and all touch the ball before a try can be scored.
Set up two 20m squares side by side. Inside each square, place an equal number of attackers and defenders – between 6 and 10. Number the sides of the square 1–4 (picture 1).
Attackers pass the ball between themselves while the defence tries to intercept (picture 2). If an intercept occurs, the sides swap roles and the defenders become attackers.
When a side is called, the defence stands still – in our example “3” is called.
Attackers from both squares must score a try on the called side with every player handling the ball (picture 3). The try-scoring pass must be backwards but can be lateral, switch, miss or any other type of pass you would be happy for your players to perform in a match Defenders, although not allowed to move, can intercept the ball if it is passed to near to them.
The winners are the team that has all of their players handle the ball and score the try first. A forward pass or dropped ball is an automatic win to their opponents.
“Loud and informative, calling for the ball”. “Movement throughout the square must be sharp.” “Realign in attack to get behind the ball once a number is called.”
Here is a pressure game where the requirements for success can change in a heartbeat – just like in a real match.
in Passing & Handling, Rugby drills
Use this power pass exercise to work on both passing and passing out of the contact. The variability of how the attacker is held back increases the learning outcomes as players face new passing challenges. MORE
in Contact, Passing & Handling
Don’t teach falling over. Teach the players to bounce themselves and therefore the ball off the ground and back into the game. It reduces the fear of falling by making the players embrace the ground as part of a skill for continuity. MORE
“The supporting player starts in front of the ball carrier, while the defender has his back to the attack. When you shout play, with the supporting player walking forward and the defender out of position, the players will have to think quickly to come up with winning solutions.” MORE
Change your try lines so they extend up the edges of the pitch to create a new sort of challenge for the players. The initial outcomes may seem strange, yet you may find the longer-term benefits help your team’s go forward. MORE
in Footwork and evasion, Small-sided games
A ball carrier races into the channel and then turns to beat a chasing defender to the end of the channel MORE
in Passing & Handling, Small-sided games
Lines of three players pass the ball quickly to the end player who races to a line in front of them to be the winner of the groups. MORE
