EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
After one year of tackling, the players are now moving onto rucks, and in some parts of the world, mauling.
A ruck is where a player from each competes for the ball which is on the ground after a tackle, but cannot put their hands on the ball.
In the adult version of the game, there are 19 ruck laws! However, at this stage you only need to be aware of around five. See how our guide to rucking for the first time here.
For a guide to under 10s rugby, see our approach to coaching under 10s.
For the key skills, go to this link.
Remember, the players should be playing games more than doing just drills. There are plenty to choose from below!
in Rugby drills
Create pace onto the ball from a “free pass” to a static player by encouraging your players to organise themselves quickly and work in threes. When the rules state that a free pass has to be to a static player, your players have to be at ease with repositioning themselves to be able to generate some pace onto the ball. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills, Tackling
Match-time tackling can be 1 v 1, but often it’s a team effort, especially for younger players. Use this simple activity to build confidence, communication and tackle technique. MORE
Use the spider crawl to create better body profiles at the ruck. It keeps the players low and able to drive up as the opposition threats arrive. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills, Small-sided games
Encourage all the best attributes in a good defensive line with this game of slide and hammer. It will improve your teams’ line speed and cohesiveness. MORE
in Footwork and evasion, Rugby drills
Ball carriers have a better chance of beating tacklers if they are going forward and changing their angles. Encourage players to do this, even if they are facing two or more defenders. MORE
Improve your players’ rucking skills by building up their contact techniques around ball placement, trying to steal the ball and protect the ball from a steal. MORE
in Tackling
Encourage good head position and leg drive in this fun exercise in tackling. It’s low impact and ideal for building confidence with your players. MORE
The ball is often fumbled or passed poorly as players get used to handling. That means more ball on the ground. Help your players recover the ball and play away. A moving rugby ball isn’t an easy thing to pick up. And once gathered, the new ball carrier has to make decisions on what to do next. Use this session to work on techniques and options. MORE
in Rugby drills, Tackling
Use this session to get your players tackling in a competitive environment. Quick to set up, it’s part of our back pocket favourites, activities you can use to re-energise your session. MORE
in Passing & Handling, Rugby drills
With younger players catching the ball can be a major issue, even without pressure and opposition. Use this graduated exercise to improve their confidence to catch. MORE
