The following is a few titles on Amazon which are currently selling and have received some positive feedback from customers.

THINK RUGBY: A GUIDE TO PURPOSEFUL TEAM PLAY
By Jim Greenwood
Published: September 2004

Available in new and used editions, Think Rugby is a great resource for coaches to bring their team together and work more efficently. Written by one of the best Jim Greenwood, this book makes coaches and players think outside the square and inject more into training sessions. A must for any coach.

COMPLETE CONDITIONING FOR RUGBY (COMPLETE CONDITIONING FOR SPORTS SERIES)
By Dan Luger and Paul Pook
Published: April 2004

With great insights and features from former England rugby great Dan Luger and leading conditioning coach Paul Pook, Complete Conditioning for Rugby is a superb book for coaches and players looking to succeed and be fitter in today’s more faster game. This 204 page masterclass showcases some outstanding skills and drills which are beneficial for most players and coaches in the game. Very workout and fitness related as the title suggests, practicing what is preached in this book can help your play and improve your overall endurance. Available in new and used editions.

Total Rugby: Fifteen-man Rugby for Coach and Player
By Jim Greenwood
Published: October 2003

Produced again by the man himself Jim Greenwood, Total Rugby is a well detailed coaching manual showcasing the author’s outstanding knowledge of all facets of the game from attacking and defending to supporting the ball carrier plus much more. Given a great rep by readers, one mentioned:

“Mr Greenwood has all the basics in here, and it serves as a useful reference for beginners wanting to get the basics of the game down, to more experienced ruggers who want to read up on strategy and training tactics.”

Yet another must for the rugby enthusiast.

RUGBY: STEPS TO SUCCESS – 2ND EDITION (STEPS TO SUCCESS ACTIVITY SERIES)
By Tony Biscombe and Peter Prewett
Published: November 2009

Given rave reviews by purchasers, Rugby Steps to Success takes you through all the important aspects of the game, benefiting more the player, but the coach as well with useful drills and explanations of how to improve players individual skills and play. You’ll learn various strategies for dominating on the field of play, including mastering the basics such as kicking, passing, running and footwork. Also available for the Kindle.

RUGBY COACHING: THE NEW ZEALAND WAY
By Rodney Butt
Published: August 2003

Rugby Coaching: The New Zealand way combines various techniques with traditional values, making the book an enjoyable read, containing a point of difference compared to many other coaching paperbacks. Made to benefit players and coaches for levels of the game, this book has only one customer review(average to say the least) but maybe worth investigating if you’re a avid kiwi rugby enthusiast looking for something a little different.

There are many more coaching books on Amazon worth looking at. Check out the website today and find yourself some of the best material available at affordable prices compared to book stores.

From number one to fifteen, every player has a distinctive role on the rugby field whether it be of attacking, defensive, or of tactical importance. Even substitute players are put on the field for a reason, whether it be to bring impact or cover injury, fatigue etc.
 
The following is a list of rugby positions on the field and the detailed characteristics and expectations that come with occupying that role.
 
PROPS
 
Loosehead Prop: The loosehead prop is positioned on the left and outside of the scrum , with the aim of providing the hooker with a clear view of hooking the ball to the back row and halfback. As well as being a mobile forward with ball in hand, the loosehead plays a vital role in assisting jumpers at lineout time in taking clear ball.
 
Tighthead Prop: Positioned to the right of the hooker and opposite loosehead, the tighthead is generally the bigger and more physical of the scrummagers. The more technical of the two, the tighthead’s role is to keep the scrum stable at all times, while disrupting the opposing hooker from hooking the ball back in their own scrum. Similar to the loosehead, the tighthead also assists lineout jumpers in taking clean ball.
 
HOOKER
 
The hooker carries a specialist role on the field, and are known for their lineout throwing abilities and in modern day rugby, their mobile running skills. Positioned between the two props in the scrum, the hooker’s role is to hook the ball back to the second row forwards and halfback for distributing. Similar to the tighthead prop, the hooker is expected to contest the opposing hooker in winning the ball in the scrum. At lineout time, the position involves throwing the ball accurately to lineout jumpers.
 
LOCKS
 
Generally the tall timber in most teams, the lock plays a vital role in catching and securing the ball in lineouts. Locks must have good catching ability, as they also compete for ball at kickoffs. In the scrum, locks use their power to push forward the front row, assisting to form a strong and stable scrum. As well as at set piece time, locks are expected to be mobile ball runners around the field.
 
FLANKERS
 
Openside Flanker: The openside flanker is positioned on the far side of the scrum and is expected to be quick off the mark, pouncing on opposing players when the ball exits. Openside flankers must show physicality at the contact area and play a vital role in turning over and securing possession at the breakdown. A position of flair and workmanship, flankers play a big role in how teams fear on game day.
 
Blindside Flanker: The blindside flanker sits on the closest side to the sideline in the scrum and are well recognized for their physical toughness and heavy work rate. Modernly the bigger of the two flankers, the blindside is expected to feature defensively and be mobile with ball in hand. Featuring little at scrum time, the flanker doesn’t push to the same extent as the front and back row forwards, instead eagerly waiting to breakout and play a defensive role in the field.
 
NUMBER EIGHT
 
Relied on to show power and a physical presence, the number eight is generally the quicker of the loose forwards. Positioned at the back of the scrum, the number eight can either choose to run with the ball or hook it back to the halfback for distribution. They are positioned at the back of the lineout and become another option to throw to when looking to attack from the set piece. Number eight’s these days are versatile players and are expected to be key ball carriers as well as front line members at ruck and maul time.
 
HALFBACK/SCRUM HALF
 
Halfbacks play an important role in any game of rugby, acting as a vital link between forwards and backs. They feature prominently during set pieces, feeding the ball into the scrum and distributing the ball from lineouts/scrums and behind rucks and mauls. They must be effective communicators, and must work tactically with outside backs and running forwards.
 
FIRST FIVE EIGHTH/FLY-HALF
 
The first five eighth plays a critical role in a team’s dominance of a game. Sitting outside the halfback, the first five’s main role is to make tactical decisions in either kicking the ball for territory or distributing the ball to outside backs for opportunities to attack. The first five eighth is usually the preferred kicker in the team and is expected to read the game in all types of situations. Some of the best first five eighths in the world are also known for their attacking brilliance, making them a handful for most opposition.
 
CENTRES
 
Inside Centre/ Second Five Eighth: The inside centre sits outside the first five eighth and are expected to play both a strong attacking and defensive game. They must possess good passing skills and have an ability to offload in the tackle, putting outside backs into space. Effective thinkers, the inside centre must run the ball in a way which can draw in defenders and offload the ball to support players. In the modern day game, centres must be able to kick well which adds another option of gaining added territory. Defensively, centres are expected to make first up tackles in the backline, limiting holes for opposition players to attack.
 
Outside Centre: Outside Centre’s are recognized for their pace and ability to break the opposing line in attack. The quicker of the midfield combination, the outside centre is expected to run good lines and support the ball carrier. Playing a similar defensive role to the inside centre, the outside is expected is front up physically when defending, forming a steady block to opposition players.
 
WINGERS
 
Left Wing: Occupying the number 11 jersey, the left wing is usually similar in stature to the right winger, showing good acceleration to beat defenders in attacking situations. With immense sidestepping ability and a willingness to kick off the left foot, the complete winger harnesses various skills to break the line and score tries.
 
Right Wing: With many of the same attributes as the left winger, the right wing can kick and step off the right foot to break defenders and gain territory. Wingers are expected to play supporting roles ton the fullback, backing up when needed to counter attack,. It’s important that the winger is defensively sound to stop players running around the outside in attack.

FULLBACK

Generally the last line in defence when opposing teams are on attack, the fullback plays a vital role in counter attacking and directing the ball to gain territory or possession. A huge role in any backline, the fullback must show a good turn of pace and harness a well drilled passing game. They must also possess good catching skills under the high ball, being calm and collected and using the right techniques in securing possession. Precise thinkers when tracing opposition play, they must fall into position when needed at all times.

SUBSTITUTE PLAYERS

Substitute players play a massive role in covering injured players, players with fatigue or to bring impact on the field. Many cover various positions in a team and become extremely valuable in the closing stages of a game.

The use of creatine is one of the most talked about subjects in world sport today, with extensive research showing that the supplement has both its distinct advantages and disadvantages. Many athletes have been sworn off the product, others believing it’s beneficial on the field of play.

Identified in 1832, creatine is naturally produced in the body, supplying energy to cells within. Approximately 95% of the body’s creatine is found in the skeletal muscle. Given this, creatine is not in the IOC(International Olympic Committee) list of banned substances, making it a legal supplement for athletes.

So what is so good about Creatine?

Creatine is known to lessen the level of fatigue during high levels of exercise, such as sprinting around the rugby field and repetitive stints of running. This supplement benefits players during matches, increasing overall strength and adding extra muscle when needed. As creatine already exists in the body, adding more into your system gives the opportunity to add strength and provide energy.

As simple as it sounds, creatine is nothing without putting the training in. Rugby players are recommended to train three times a week, taking the supplement during the off season and pre season to gear up for the months ahead. Without high levels of strength training, creatine will simply not work and be a waste of time.

If taken correctly, the benefits are known to be huge for rugby players, many reporting the boost in performance and energy levels.

But why are athletes being sworn off the product and told standard training is simply good enough?

Long term effects are one reason. Some studies have shown that excess use of creatine can cause harm to kidneys. Other studies have shown various side effects such as aggressiveness, acne and even hair loss. Such reports have given negative publicity to creatine, some mentioning it should be banned.

Should rugby players use creatine?

The use of creatine supplements is purely up to the individual. As the supplement is legal, athletes have the opportunity to use this without the worry of being tested and discarded from their respective sports. Rugby players need to assess themselves and way up the pros and cons of taking this supplement. With all the negative press surrounding it, it’s slowly drifting away from the norm and reports of bad side effects are increasing. For those considering usage, the starting dosage for creatine is generally 20g a day for the first five days, then 2 – 5 grams a day from then on, backed up with recommended exercise to boost size and strength.

At the end of the day, creatine is designed to boost your performance but is it really worth the long term effects? Many say no and say structured training the way to go, and a much safer option.

Rippa rugby was launched throughout New Zealand in 2003, with the aim to provide a safe, enjoyable and easy way to learn the game for young players. Ever since the launch, the game has become extremely popular and has developed players into stars for the future and acted as an ideal stepping stone to contact rugby.

When getting your child into the game, it’s important to choose the right rugby club and have the correct equipment necessary for the game.

Club

Whether you live in a small town or city location, you have the option of choosing which rugby club your child joins. In some areas there are only a few clubs available, limiting your options. Make sure you pick the right club for your child which has a schedule which suits you and your family. Keep an eye on your local newspaper for weigh in times and open days which you can sign your child up to play. Depending on your location, the club nearest to you maybe the easiest option. It makes it easy when taking your child to practice, home games etc. Some primary schools are linked with clubs. Some clubs may provide notices through school of open days, weigh ins etc. Check to see if any clubs are affiliated with your child’s primary school.

Subs

Subs are annual fees you pay to join the rugby club which covers registration, mouthguards, resources and equipment etc. With some clubs they offer an incentive if you pay subs before the due date. Depending on the club they may provide a free beanie or bonus item etc. It’s important you pay by the due date.

Mouthguards/Safety Equipment

Mouthguards are used to protect teeth in case of contact, and are compulsory in Rippa rugby. Most clubs provide mouthguards, otherwise they can be purchased at a small expense from supermarkets, pharmacies and sports retail stores. Players will not be let on to the field without a mouthguard, so make sure your child has one.

To fit correctly, place mouthguard in near boiling water for 10 seconds then pull out with a spoon. Make sure it’s not too hot that it burns your child’s mouth. Place it in your child’s mouth and get them to bite firmly into the mouthguard. This will mould their teeth into place for a good fit. Repeat process if not achieved. If the mouthguard is too long, you can trim it back to a comfortable size which suits your child’s needs. Your child may also want to wear optional safety wear such as headgear etc.

Uniform /Team kit

The uniform worn represents your club and who your club is. Your team’s jersey is usually provided at your first training session or just before your first match, and must be well looked after. These are to be returned at the end of the year so they can be reused the next season. The rest of the uniform is at your expense.

These are the uniform requirements:

Rugby Socks – The club’s socks can be purchased from your club directly or at most sports retails stores.
Rugby Shorts – Rugby shorts can also be purchased from your club or sports retail stores. Make sure you purchase the correct size as your child will be growing regularly at this age.
Rugby Boots – There are various models and sizes of rugby boots which can be purchased from most sports retail stores. Start with basic rugby boots and upgrade as your child develops a better interest in the game.

Shop around as some stores maybe cheaper than others.

Other Items

Make sure your child is ready on game day with important items inside their sports bag. On a freezing cold day, include thermals which can be worn underneath for extra warmth and comfort. Inside the sports bag, make sure you carry a drink bottle so your child can have keep hydrated at half time and after the game.
Keep a practice ball so you can practice with your child at home.

Tag rugby is a fantastic sport for all involved and has proved a real hit throughout New Zealand communities. It’s a sport which promotes great fitness and provides real enjoyment for all. Get your child on to the field of play and have some fun!

Learning the game of rugby can take even the seasoned professional years to perfect, starting from schoolboy grades all the way through to club, domestic and international level. Even stars such as All Blacks’ Captain Richie McCaw are still mastering their trade with the game continuing to advance throughout the modern era. There are various skills to learn within rugby that are of the upmost importance, and by practicing these on a regular basis, this can benefit your game and make you a better player for overall. When playing rugby at contact level, it’s important to train as you would play and practice the basic skills needed before game day. These are ten of the most important skills to master during your rugby apprenticeship.

Running

Learning to run effectively is a basic and common skill, and if practiced enough in training can work to your advantage on the field of play.
Whether it be straight running or sidestepping, both of these skills are important to your attacking game.

• Practice running on to the ball with speed which gives you a better opportunity to break defenders and gain extra territory for your team.
• Ball handling is vital when running. If attempting to break away from defenders, carry the ball securely under one arm, keeping the other free to fend off tacklers. This will help your running speed while keeping control of the ball.
• Sidestepping is another skill used by backline players (and the occasional forward).To sidestep to your right, drop your weight on your left shoulder and leg, driving this leg firmly into the ground and push away on your right. A great attacking weapon, sidestepping is an integral part of backline play.

Passing

Passing the ball is a vital skill which if practiced with the correct technique can benefit your game immensely.

• Accuracy is extremely important. Make sure you pass the ball at a height which is easy to catch(between the waist and chest).
• Throwing the ball slightly in front of a player can also give them something to run onto, allowing a better chance to breach defenders.
• Keep a steady eye on where your team mates are positioned. Make sure they’re able to catch the ball with enough space to avoid defenders or make another pass.
• Control your passing speed depending on the situation. The quick ball which can be run onto can be effective. Make sure the ball is passed at an accurate height for players to gather. If not, the ball can be intercepted , resulting in an opportunity for the opposition to score.
• Practice by throwing balls at targets at training, this can help your overall accuracy and passing skills.

The English Rugby Team at a open training session

There are many different skills in catching a rugby ball, whether it be in general play or under the high ball. Catching the ball is all about good hand and eye coordination.
Make sure you focus and secure the ball with your fingertips, closing both hands upon arrival of the ball.

• Keep palms and fingers spread, giving every opportunity to gather the ball cleanly. Secure the ball for better control so opponents cannot steal in the tackle.

Tackling

Tackling is one thing you’ll do plenty of in rugby, and using the right technique is essential.

As with all skills, practice makes perfect and putting time into your defence can only advance your game further.

• Keep eyes firmly focussed on the player you are tackling.
• Aim to tackle in the stomach area with your shoulder and arms, driving your legs so your opponents move backwards.
• Attempt to tackle lower rather than higher. If you tackle too high, you run the risk of conceding a penalty or a possible yellow or red card.
• Try to keep correct body position and shoulders and back straight.

Kicking

Kicking will always be a part of the game, and learning to do so is normally determined by your playing position on the field. Backline players are normally responsible for kicking. Harnessing this skill can earn your team good territory and metres.

• Practice your grip on the ball when punting. Put your left hand to the front of the ball and right towards the rear. Allow the ball to fall accurately on your foot by rotating your hands sideways.
• For better contact of the ball, keep foot straight for improved distance and accuracy. It’s all about timing, controlled speed and technique which makes for better metres.
• Learn to follow through when kicking instead of standing still upon contact. This makes for better distance and overall power.
• When place kicking, practice your technique regularly in training. It’s recommended to take four to five steps back, using your non kicking leg as stability when following through.

Positional Skills

Playing to your position and dedicated role in the team goes along way to winning matches. Whether you’re a prop, first five, fullback or winger, it’s important to study your position and learn all the traits that go with it.

• Listen to your coach and your team’s game plan. Follow your distinctive role in the team and play to the best of your ability.

The Rules

Understanding the laws and rules in rugby benefits your knowledge in the game and how they can work in your advantage or against you.

• Study the law book and basic rules of the game. Go over the main points such as the ruck and maul area, scrum, set piece penalties etc. Don’t stress spending days or weeks on it, just familiarise yourself on what’s important and how you can play to this.
• Study the referee when playing. Watch him around the field on what he does and how he assesses the game.
• Play by these rules at all times. Respect who is in charge(the referee and the rule book.

Teamwork

Team work is valuable tool and one that can lead to huge success on the field. Rugby is not a game of individuals alone, it’s a game which requires 100% effort from every player to succeed.
Without teamwork, a team can lack cohesion and the motivation to win. As the old saying goes there is no “I” in team.

• Contribute to a positive team culture. Praise others for what they do on the field and encourage them. Even if players make mistakes, give them a pat on the back and tell them to get back into the game.
• Work together to reach your goals as a team.

Ruck/Mauls

The ruck and maul area is one of the more complicated parts of the game. Having a full understanding about the area can lead to better play and more opportunity to dominate.

• Make sure as a ball handler, you release the ball when going to ground. If you don’t, you’ll be penalised. Simple as that.
• If you’re contesting the ball in a ruck, make sure you are always on your feet and coming in from the right path(straight). If not done correctly you run the risk of being penalised, costing your team field position or points.
• If you’re attempting to ruck the ball back, watch where you are using your feet. If you are deemed to not be rucking safely, you will be penalised and maybe placed on report.
• Be careful in mauls not to bring the other team down as defenders. Again it’s a penalty offense.

Enjoyment

At the end of the day we all play rugby for one thing, enjoyment. Without enjoyment the game becomes a chore and more of a job than anything. Learn to enjoy the game and the people around you, this is what makes rugby such a great game and why it’s so popular in world sport.

Coaching equipment has become more advanced over the years, giving coaches better opportunities to prepare players for matches. Being prepared as a coach is vital, making sure the right equipment is on board for training and prior to matches. This equipment has various uses, giving players what they need to succeed on the field. Here is some of the equipment thats a necessity for coaches, and can develop players in different areas of the game.

Balls

Practicing the basics without a rugby ball can be extremely difficult, making it important you carry an adequate amount of balls to distribute between players.

• Work with balls for basic training, such as handling, passing, kicking and attacking moves etc
• Use different sizes of rugby balls to develop players handling skills. There are different types and sizes on the market used by various age groups. Keep a good mix of balls to boost skills.
• As an alternative, use tennis balls or footballs to vary handling and kicking activities. Varying the shape of balls in practice can also help skill levels.

Clothing

Different types of clothing can be used for a number of drills and games.

• Use coloured bibs to identify teams during practice games.
• Arm bands can also be used to identify key players or leaders during skills and games.
• Make sure players carry adequate clothing for various weather conditions.

Cones

Cones can be used for an array of drills, making them a valuable prop during training.

• Use to mark out different distances for players to run and pass to etc. Measure areas and place cones accordingly.
• Use cones as markers for accuracy during passing. Vary the angles and distances between cones to develop passing and catching skills.
• Use as markings for practice games, placing cones along the sideline and for the try scoring area.

Whistles

Whistles can be a coaches best friend to get players attention when needed.

• Use during running drills alongside your stop watch or timing device.
• A well needed tool for practice games to referee.

Scrum Machines

Scrum machines are a must for forwards, developing the scummaging area of the game and increasing strength. It’s important to identify weakness in the scrum during a game and work on during practice on the machine.

Tackle Bags

Tackle bags can be used for many defensive drills and activities. Teaching players to tackle at different heights can improve defensive skills, along with the use of tacking bags in attacking moves.

With new technology developing every day, there are many other coaching products on offer to develop players in training sessions, benefiting basic skills. Along with defensive products, there is also equipment that can develop speed and agility, such as speed ladders and hurdles.

With the amount of equipment available, the future of training players is rapidly improving, making coach’s work easier and increasing players skill levels along the way.

]]> http://rugbycoaching.net/rugby-coaching/rugby-equipment-for-coaches/feed/ 0 http://rugbycoaching.net/rugby-coaching/coaching-junior-rugby/ http://rugbycoaching.net/rugby-coaching/coaching-junior-rugby/#comments Fri, 25 Feb 2011 08:46:17 +0000 Ben Pearce http://rugbycoaching.net/?p=392 ]]>

Coaching junior rugby can be a rewarding experience, giving young players an appetite for the game and a learning of the basics to succeed. As it may seem a daunting task for new coaches to begin , it’s important to focus step by step, with an emphasis on teaching the basics thorough ally. This can be beneficial to players development and give them a better platform for the future.

There are some key elements to consider when teaching the game, and if done correctly, can bring success in training and on the field of play

Skills/Basics

Demonstrating the basics correctly is very important as players will carry these skills throughout their playing career.

• Keep things simple for younger players (5-9 years), with an emphasis on learning basic skills such as handling, passing and running. Teach players to run and pass with two hands along with placing the ball.
• Focus on building key skills over the season, repeating these at training every week so players can develop better and keep fresh in the mind.
• Make skills and learning the basics fun and enjoyable, so that younger players don’t get distracted and bored. Put energy into the basics, creating a positive learning environment.
• As players develop in age(10-12 years), they will start to take more interest in the game. Introduce different areas of rugby to players, such as kicking, contact,tackling, rucks and mauls etc. -Teach them the next level, along with working regularly on the basics to continue development.

Confidence and Encouragement

It’s important to give players the confidence to play to the best of their ability while having fun and enjoying the game.

• Praise players for their achievements and developments in training and when playing. This will encourage them to learn more and develop their style of play.
• Create a team cheer or shout when having a team huddle. This creates and energy and brings a team together.

Attack

Attacking with the ball is one of the most enjoyable parts of rugby, and a part of the game which younger players thrive. Teach players the different skills and techniques with attacking as they develop through the age groups.

• Teach players to run with the ball in two hands.
• Teaching players to support the ball carrier which can create better attacking opportunities. A successful attacking team always has players in support to take a pass if needed.
• With younger players (5 -9 years), teach them to move forward as a team, passing regularly. Try not to make things complicated by teaching set pieces, attacking moves etc. Work on the basics such as running, passing, moving forward etc
• As players progress through the grades and develop a better understanding of the game, start to teach set pieces and different attacking strategies. Work on these at training using various drills.

Defence

Junior players will begin with non contact (5-9 years) and progress through to tackling and contact rugby. It’s important to teach both of these styles, demonstrating the art of defence and how to stop the opposition from scoring and gaining field position.

• With non contact, teach players to keep eyes on opponents hips, with correct body position. Make sure legs are bent properly and back and head is straight when defending.
• When players progress to contact and tackling (10 years +), make sure chin is up, back is straight and players tackle the hips and drive forward. Maintain focus on opposing players and lock in with both arms. Make sure players return to their feet to contest the ball and attempt to gain possession.

Fair Play

Fair play must be encouraged throughout junior grades of rugby and is huge part of sport in general.

• Teach players to respect the opposing team, shaking hands after the game etc
• Players must be taught to respect officials, referees and the rules of the game.
• Foul play and ill discipline will not be tolerated within rugby. Teach players not to use these techniques and play within the rules of the game throughout all levels of junior rugby.
• Reward players with fair player awards, recognizing good sportsmanship and respect.

Junior rugby is the start of a career for many young players, and a huge platform for bigger things to come. If players can be taught all elements of rugby in a positive and creative environment, it can help them excel for many years to come.

]]> http://rugbycoaching.net/rugby-coaching/coaching-junior-rugby/feed/ 1 http://rugbycoaching.net/opinion/super-rugby-can-the-crusaders-win-an-eighth-title/ http://rugbycoaching.net/opinion/super-rugby-can-the-crusaders-win-an-eighth-title/#comments Thu, 17 Feb 2011 20:00:46 +0000 Ben Pearce http://rugbycoaching.net/?p=390 ]]>

The bookmakers have tipped a two horse race in the 2011 Super 15 competition, featuring defending champions the Bulls, and New Zealand’s leading hope the Crusaders. The Bulls are worthy of a third consecutive title, but can the Crusaders tip the scales and claim their eighth Super Rugby Crown?
 
It’s fair to say the Crusaders are New Zealand’s genuine title threat, looking at their past history. Having claimed seven titles and possessing many of New Zealand’s most lethal playing weapons, they’re on the verge of another. An eighth championship would underline their status as the most successful franchise in the history of the tournament, a huge feat any rugby region would dream of.
 
Featuring a powerful forward pack, the Crusaders will show plenty of dominance up front. With All Blacks’ Ritchie McCaw, Brad Thorn, Kieran Read, Sam Whitelock and the Franks brothers(Ben and Owen), it’s hard to push past the quality of these players. Throw in ITM Cup star Matt Arnold and the experience of Chris Jack and the Crusaders look championship winning material.
 
The franchise posts another blistering backline, nothing more dangerous than the devastating combo of Sonny Bill Williams and Robbie Fruean. They were unstoppable in the ITM Cup, breaking tackles with ease and causing numerous headaches for opposition. With Sonny Bill’s impressive offloading skills and Fruean’s scintillating speed, they’ll be tough to stop. Dan Carter will again give direction to the backline, the world’s number one five eighth still with plenty to prove with the World Cup just around the corner. Halfback Andy Ellis, will be out to cement his All Black spot, a player which showed superb leadership skills and a certain grittiness which All Black halfbacks most often display.
 
Among the forte of exciting talent on offer, the Crusaders have added Hawke’s Bay magician Israel Dagg to the fray. Dagg was explosive in 2010, most memorable for his game winning try against the Springboks in South Africa, giving the All Blacks an important Tri Nations away scalp. His electric running skills, undeniable attack and vision of the game adds another notch to the Crusaders belt, a player which will be vital to their title aspirations. Throw him alongside teammate Zac Guildford, and the danger is evident among a backline with plenty of class.
 
Even though the Crusaders are the standout franchise in the New Zealand conference, they’ll be tested by their kiwi counterparts.
 
The Hurricanes will be looking to break their Super Rugby duck and give new coach Mark Hammett a successful start to his head coaching career. On paper they look strong, but will need to break their mindset of falling apart when it really matters, something that has haunted Hurricanes teams of the past.
 
The Blues are no longer the nemesis they once were, however, expectations are higher than before in the camp. Coach Pat Lam has put out the challenge to perform and they must achieve this for any chance of finals football.
 
The Chiefs were quick out of the gate in 2010, but fell apart towards the middle and end, resulting in a disastrous campaign. Their form at home was atrocious, one thing among many they will need to reverse in 2011.
 
The Highlanders pose the less threatening out of the New Zealand franchises, but will look to surprise. With a new coaching regime and some credible recruiting, a better year is fore casted for the southern men, putting away bad memories from past seasons.
 
The Australian franchises will look for a big year, especially the Reds who were a revelation in 2010, a team which features some outstanding individuals in Quade Cooper and Will Genia plus many more. The Waratahs, Brumbies, Western Force and newcomers the Melbourne Rebels will be right up there closer to finals time, but may lack that certain edge which is similar to past campaigns, to advance any further.
 
The Crusaders biggest threat will come from South Africa’s two leading powerhouses, the Bulls and the Stormers. The Stormers were arguably the best team in 2010, even though they fell short at the final hurdle. They produced so much balance and power which made them a hard side to crack in 2010. The champion Bulls have been in a league of their own for the past few seasons, winning two consecutive titles and winning when it really matters. Featuring reliable five eighth Morne Steyn, the towering Victor Matfield, Fourie Du Preez and Bakkies Botha, the Bulls have enough firepower to go all the way in 2011.

Will it be the Bulls who will continue their Super Rugby dominance or it will be the year of the Crusaders, a team desperate to bring the silverware back to New Zealand soil? It will be a telling season.

]]> http://rugbycoaching.net/opinion/super-rugby-can-the-crusaders-win-an-eighth-title/feed/ 1 http://rugbycoaching.net/rugby-coaching/iteam-app-gives-rugby-coaches-technology-at-their-fingertips/ http://rugbycoaching.net/rugby-coaching/iteam-app-gives-rugby-coaches-technology-at-their-fingertips/#comments Fri, 14 Jan 2011 23:03:33 +0000 Simon Ward http://rugbycoaching.net/?p=378 ]]>

Rugby coaches without the financial clout of the Aviva Premiership are able to bring technological assistance to their own clubs with the help of the iTeam app for iPhone. Advancements in technology have put a wealth of statistics and data at the disposal of the game’s professional coaches. Those further down the rugby ladder can now get insights into their team on Apple’s smartphone.

iTeam allows users to view fixtures for the remainder of the season, past results from the current or previous seasons and scoring stats for each player. Coaches can give players a snap rating on a 5-star system to make sure they remember who impressed them. The app is proving hugely popular with mini and junior teams. Many youth coaches are finding that sharing the data and ratings with their players enthuses the youngsters, who are familiar with similar basic statistics from video games.

After entering the details of players, fixtures and opponents, iTeam gives coaches the chance to record the number of tries, conversions, penalties and drop goals scored by each player in every match. The app uses a clean design and friendly interface, which is almost identical to the iPhone layout for Contacts, iPod and Email.

Download the iTeam app now from Itunes for £1.79.

]]> http://rugbycoaching.net/rugby-coaching/iteam-app-gives-rugby-coaches-technology-at-their-fingertips/feed/ 0 http://rugbycoaching.net/rugby-coaching/rugby-diet-and-nutrition-tips/ http://rugbycoaching.net/rugby-coaching/rugby-diet-and-nutrition-tips/#comments Tue, 28 Dec 2010 01:11:07 +0000 Ben Pearce http://rugbycoaching.net/?p=363 ]]>

Nutrition plays such an important part in a rugby players career, making sure the right foods and fluids are absorbed into the body on a daily basis.

Along with a regular training regime, correct nutrition can make the body and mind work much more effectively, not only producing results in training, but on the field of play.

There are numerous foods which are advised in a players diet, some more important that others.

Carbohydrate Foods

Carbohydrate foods are consumed regularly in the diet, a group of foods which best produce the bodies main source of energy.

• For breakfast, eat cereal and breads, which are carbohydrate rich.
• When snacking, consume muesli bars, crackers, fruit etc
• For main meals, eat pasta, rice, potatoes etc as well as vegetables.

These foods will benefit players when recovering and preparing for training and matches, and will improve muscle gain.

Hydration

Low hydration levels can effect any rugby players mental ability, inflicting badly in decision making. Keeping good hydration can improve concentration and longevity.

• Consume 1.5 to 2 litres of water per day to maintain high levels
• Two hours before game time, drink half a litre of water to improve concentration and physical stability
  When consuming meals and snacks, try to include a glass of water.
• Keeping fluids up helps recovery, as the amount lost during training and games is extremely high.

Protein Foods

Eat moderate amounts of protein foods to balance your diet and add variety.

Moderate amounts of foods such as meat, fish and dairy products add to the balance of your diet but must be analyzed, as these foods are not your main source on energy.

Fruit and Vegetables

Fruit and vegetables play a vital part in every person’s diet and are essential for energy. Consume five of more servings of fruit and vegetables per day, plus your requirement of carbohydrate foods. These can strengthen muscles, prevent illness, sickness and help body recovery.

Low Fat Foods

Along with a balanced diet, low fat foods can be consumed as snacks and be regular in your diet without putting on unneeded body weight. Foods such as fresh fruit, low fat smoothies, cereal bars, dried fruit etc can be snacked throughout the day, giving the body adequate energy when needed.

Avoid

• High in fat foods before and during exercise, training and matches.
• Large amounts of alcohol, which can lead to slower recovery of injuries, unnecessary increase in body weight and poor hydration levels.
• Carbohydrate foods late at night which can also add unwanted body weight.
• Excess amounts of protein rich foods, which can by high in fat and calories.

Correct nutrition plays such a massive part in professional sport, and if every players follows the correct guidelines while consuming foods and liquids, fitness and training can become a lot easier and and motivation levels can be at a premium.

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