Defence is important, in tight games it can be the difference between winning and losing, however, it’s not an aspect of the game which players will enjoy practicing. As a coach you need to ensure you have a strong defensive plan. In this article I will look as some important aspects of coaching defensive and provide you with some resources to get you started. Backline Communication The key to good backline defence is communication. A player needs to cover all of an opponent’s attacking ... Read More

Category: Passing Objective: To improve ball handling skills. Gear: 1ball, 10 metre grid (can use cones or anything to mark area) Players: 2 teams of 4 to 6 Each player in a team is given a number. The ball must be passed between team members, but the rule is that it must be passed in order. i.e Player 1 must pass to 2, 2 must pass to 3 etc. The game is like Piggy in the middle but as a group. The defending team must try and ... Read More

Category: Ruck Objective: Players consider options at Ruck Time Gear: Hit shields (at least 2), balls Players: Groups of 4 to attack, 2 hold hit shields Two players hold hit shield close together facing attacking players. 1st player of attackers comes up, hits the shield, and goes to ground The next three players follow closely and make a decision as the first hits the ground...to either: 2 players blow over the ball, 3rd picks up or each player can attempt a pick and go. The defending players can steal the ball, ... Read More

Category: Kick-Off / Restart Objective: To make a restart from half way or the 22m line. Gear: Balls, and tee Players: 4 The player who needs to practice their kicking takes to ball to halfway, midfield. 3 forwards lineup at halfway in a group, in line with where the kick will be aimed. The kicker then attempts to kick the ball, it must travel at least 10 meters. The aim is for the kicker to land the ball over the 10 meter line on the full, but kick ... Read More

Category: Lineout Objective: To throw the ball in accurately Gear: 1 ball, 1 Rugby Post. Hooker stands on the goal line facing the side of the goal post. Aim to hit the upright at various heights. The thrower needs to progressively set targets at practice, e.g. three is a row, then five in a row. You can use cones to set out distances from the post to represent the different distances to lineout jumpers i.e. Jumper at number 2, or 4. Once precision is mastered, the hooker should practice ... Read More

Category: Place Kicking Objective: Improve Accuracy of a place kick Gear: 1 ball for every player Drill Explanation Right in front of the posts (close as you like) takes 5-10 shots at goal. Move to the left of the centre (15m) and take 5-10 shots. Move to the right of the centre (15m) and take 5-10 shots. Move right over near touchline of both sides and have 2-3 shots. Move back from the 22m and have 2-3 shots. Go back to the start if you need to, and begin again. Place ... Read More