EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
If you have good tacklers but a poor defensive unit, use this game where small groups of defenders have to work hard to prevent tries as a team, says Craig Newby, Ulster skills coach. Using shorter, sharper sessions means players can concentrate on getting things right and also play at match-like intensity. This type of session is also far more enjoyable and means players give their all. MORE
in Defence
Attempting to steal tackle ball, jackling, can lead to turnovers but also has a nasty habit of leading to penalties. Weigh up the risks and rewards with your players. MORE
Line speed, that is the defensive coming forward quickly and in an organised state, certainly puts pressure on the attack. However, it’s notoriously tough to coach, even at the senior level. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t start putting in place some organisation. Here are some ideas to work with. MORE
in Defence
Defence has traditionally centred around the objective of winning the ball back. Which is absolutely the point but, by only focusing on or rewarding a player or team for doing that we can overlook or miss so many positive bits of play that count as good defence. MORE
You need to be flexible in your approach to backline defence and suit the strengths of the team you coach. But there are principles you need to keep to be effective in the modern game. COACH THE TEAM, NOT THE SYSTEM I have coached a number of different teams and I think it is important... MORE
You might be coaching your team the blitz for the first time or reintroducing it. Here's how I have introduced my system of the blitz to teams. MORE
All players can be more effective in the tackle area, but what are the top players doing that your players can also copy and use in games. Here are two ideas to work on in training... MORE
Some simple organisation can mean you cut down lots of teams attacking options, especially if they have one quick or big (or both!) player who loves to run with the ball. This works well with younger age groups. MORE
in Defence, Defence, Rugby drills
Develop your defensive tactics to get back into position after a line break. Your defenders need to learn their roles and responsibilities to prevent the attack taking more advantage. MORE
in Defence, Rugby coaching videos, Rugby drills, U10+
Work on getting into position quickly to fill the spaces either side of the ruck, with the right spacings and then coming forward as a group to cut down attacking options. MORE
