Rugby drill to work on quick fire handling skills

The "fast-slow-fast" rugby coaching drill creates a competitive atmosphere, with players looking for unusual passing solutions.

Rugby drill set up

• Players: 4 v 4.
• Area: 10m square split into four equal boxes.
• Equipment: One ball.

Rugby drill coaching tips

• Start in any box, with the first ball carrier getting two seconds to run and pass before his marker can move.
• Allow touch tackling only to begin with.
• Dropped or intercepted balls, failure to release the ball in three seconds if touched, or running out of the area leads to a restart for the other team.

How to score in this drill

1 point for five consecutive passes.

What to call out in the drill

• "Use short sharp changes in direction."
• "Pass into spaces for the receiver to run on to."
• "Anticipate where to pass the ball before you receive it."

Key rugby coaching tips

• Players will find that looped or lobbed passes will be easily intercepted. Firm passing is essential.
• The use of non-verbal communication helps. The players should consider using their hands to show which direction they are going to go.
• "Fast, slow, fast" should be the mantra for players looking to lose their markers.

Click here for a rugby drill to get players working on their skills for passing at speed.

Click here to get rugby coaching tips delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to Rugby Coach Weekly.