Develop your players’ basic tackling footwork before adding in more contact with this 1v1 exercise. Use it as part of a warm-up as well, with players rotating so they are given different challenges all the times. A session from Rhys Cottrell.
A ball carrier and defender start with their backs to each other in the middle of the box.
Shout out first the attacker’s cone and then the defender’s cone.
The attacker and defender run to their cones and turn.
The defender aims to make a two-handed touch on the ball carrier.
They swap roles and repeat.
After one go each, the first ball carrier from each group moves anti-clockwise to the next box.
This ensures a different challenge every go.
DEVELOPMENTS
Increase the level of contact.
Have the defender on their fronts or backs to start with.
TAG DEVELOPMENTS
For tag players, they can score one point for grabbing one tag, and two points if they grab both tags at the same time.
Make sure your players enter the breakdown legally – by getting tough through the tackle gate. This will also mean they’ll arrive square and in a better position to drive over the ball and win it. MORE
Time your chase and catch from a box kick, depending on the skills of your 9. Whatever the hang time and distance of the kick, the chaser should be able to challenge for the ball at the end of his sprint. MORE
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
Practise the skills needed to win back your own kicks. The chip over the top can make a defence think twice about rushing up, with the kicker or a chaser able to regain the ball behind the line and in space. MORE
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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 IrishMORE
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