Heriot’s Rugby Club, Junior Section - Amazon S3s Mini's...Heriot’s Rugby Club, Junior Section...

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Heriot’s Rugby Club, Junior Section

Minis Drill Manual

Who Is The Drill Suitable For?

Under 7 Under 10 Under 13 Page

Ball Familiarisation


Follow The Coach

Multi Action Relay

Basic Pass

Follow The Coach

How Many Passes

Pass Progression

Passive Waves

Zig Zag Passing

Back & Forth

Pressure Pass

Non Contact Tackle

Octopus

Rats & Rabbits

Ratz Rush

Touchdown

Receiving Pass

Corner Ball

Fitness Passing 1

Follow The Coach

How Many Passes

Passing Circle

Touch The Ground & Pass

Tali

Running With Ball

Handling Relay

Multi Action Relay

Pick & Place

Shadow Run

Swerve

Evading The Player

Handling Relay

Rats & Rabbits

Ratz Rush

Tap Kick & Pass

Pick & Place

Tap Pass Tap


2

Attack

Backline Formation

Cone Passing

Counterattack Drill 1

Pommy

Basic Kick

Force Back

Pair Kicking

Rotational Kicking

Continuity

4-Corner Mauling Drill

Ruck Same Way

Defence

Continuous Drift

Defence Decision

Draw & Pass

2 To Score

2 v 1

Opposed 2 v 1

Pressure Pass

Watch Out

Dribbling

Ball Control

Multi Action Relay

Evading Player

Handling Relay

Order Ball

Shadow Run

Evading The Player

Falling in Tackle

Basic Tackle

Stop A Try

Picking Up A Ball

Lifting A Grounded Ball

Pick & Place

Pick Up Place

Support & Pass

Pre Contact

Multi Man Drills

Simple Contact

Step & Drive

Scrum

1 On 1

3 On 3

Side Step

The Step

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Side On Tackle

Basic Tackle

Grid Tackling

Grid Tackling Variation

Pick-Up/Tackle Competition

Tackle Bag Drive

At Contact

Contact Squares 2

Contact Three

Hit & Support

Multi Man Drills

Step & Drive

Dive/Off Ground Pass

Continuity Combo 1

Half Back Pass

Half Back Pressure Practice 1



Falling on Ball

Contact Squares 2

Diving On The Ball

Basic Tackle

Basic Tackle

Grid Tackling

Stop A Try

Tackle Bag Drive

Tackle Chase

Getting Up

Pass & Press

Tackle & Drive

Tackle Chase

Running In Support

Continuous Game

Cut-Out & Double Around

New Ball

Support & Pass

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OBJECTIVE: To develop players’ awareness of a rugby ball by working on a range of ball handling skills

EQUIPMENT: One ball per player

GROUP SIZE: Any number

AREA: 10 x 10 metre grid (adjust the grid size to match the number of players)

DRILL SET-UP: Players spread themselves evenly around the grid with a ball held in two hands.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Have players familiarise themselves with the ball by passing it a given number of times:

Around the head.

Around the waist.

Around the knees.

Around the ankles.

In figure eights through the legs.

Into the air, taking one step forward and catching it behind the back.

Between the legs, leaving the ball in one place and changing the hands rapidly from left at the front, right at back, to left at

the back, right at the front.

These drills can be done on the run. In addition, the ball can be bounced and recovered on the run.

VARIATIONS / PROGRESSION:

Use medicine balls.

Number the activities.

Decrease the size of the grid to put more pressure on the players.

Increase the speed and intensity of the activities.

5

Follow The Coach

OBJECTIVE: Improve communication and reactions.

EQUIPMENT: One ball per pair

GROUP SIZE: Two - team

AREA: Large

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Players form pairs and position themselves so that only one player in each pair can see the coach.

Each pair has a ball and the drill starts with the player in each pair, separated by one metre, passing back and forward to

one another.

The coach blows the whistle and at the same time points in a direction they want the players to go.

The player who can see immediately goes in that direction and the other player adjusts.


Introduce groups of four players.

Call out direction, i.e. left, right, forward, etc.

6

Multi-Action Relay

OBJECTIVE: To practise various ball skills

EQUIPMENT: One ball per group

GROUP SIZE: 6-15 players

AREA: 20m x 20m

DRILL SET-UP: Three lines face a marker 15 metres away.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Each of the front players runs around their marker performing a designated skill.

After completing the skill the players hand the ball to the next player in line.

Types of Skills:

1st lap: Roll ball and pick up

2nd lap: Dribble ball along the ground

3rd lap: Shoulder roll, ball in arms

4th lap: Rotate ball around trunk

5th lap: Chip kick and chase

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How Many Passes?

OBJECTIVE: To improve players' passing skills and reactions

EQUIPMENT: One ball

GROUP SIZE: Four players

AREA: 5m x 5m

DRILL SET-UP: Four players inside grid area.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Four players group together inside the grid area with one player nominated as the interceptor.

The interceptor is to try and pressure the other players into making bad passes or dropping the ball.

If the ball is dropped or intercepted, the player who made the error and the interceptor change roles and the drill continues.


Introduce a scoring system for the most number of passes made uninterrupted.

Increase the number of interceptors.

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Pass Progression

OBJECTIVE: Developing the fundamental skills of the basic lateral pass

EQUIPMENT: One ball per group, cones

GROUP SIZE: 5 - 8

AREA: 5m x 15m

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Stage 1. Players are positioned along a straight line separated by around one arm’s length.

Players in the first three stages remain stationary.

Players simply swing the ball along the line to the next player, who simply reaches out to receive the ball.

Stage 2. Now players separated by 1.5m pass the ball along the lines.

Stage 3. Increase the separation to about 3m.

Stage 4. Lateral passing at a walking pace for about 30m.

Stage 5. Lateral passing at jogging pace for about 30m.

Stage 6. Lateral passing at running pace for about 30m. (Vary speeds.)


Use cut-out pass, lob pass, pop pass, etc.

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Passing Waves

OBJECTIVE: To improve players’ passing & receiving technique

EQUIPMENT: 8–12 cones / One ball

GROUP SIZE: 9 minimum – 25 maximum

AREA: 10m x 10m (this will need to be extended with more players taking part in the drill)

DRILL SET-UP: Three teams of 3, 4 or 5 players. Set-up as shown in diagram.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Group A runs towards Group B passing the ball laterally. The last player who receives the ball in Group A passes to the

person in Group B.

Group B runs towards Group C passing the ball.

Group A lines up where Group B was originally stationed.

The last person in Group B passes to the player in Group C.

Procedure is repeated.


Move cones closer together to increase pressure.

Two teams running in opposite directions if there are sufficient numbers (two balls can be used).

Have a halfback feeding the ball to each team.

Have an extra player coming into each backline with the opposition team acting as defenders.

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Zig Zag Passing

OBJECTIVE: Develop a pass, catch and run drill during warm-up

EQUIPMENT: As many balls as the group’s skills will allow. Up to one for every two players.

GROUP SIZE: Any number but using full squad

AREA: 10 x 50 metre grid

DRILL SET-UP: Two lines facing each other. Each line should be 3-5 metres apart and each player should be one metre from the player beside

them.

DRILL EXPLANATION: 1. The coach feeds as many balls one at a time, as the player’s skill will allow, to player 1 and these are passed in a

zigzag from one line to the other right down the two lines.

2. Once all the balls being used have been handled by a player, that player runs to the end of the line to receive the balls

again.

3. The drill continues until the players reach the end of the 50-metre grid.

VARIATIONS / PROGRESSION: 1. The players run down the centre line between the two groups. The players must be careful not to hit the running

players.

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Octopus

OBJECTIVE: To improve evasive running and tackling techniques.

EQUIPMENT: 4 cones

GROUP SIZE: Team

AREA: Depends on team size

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Line half the team along one side of the grid and the other half along the next line of the grid.

Choose an octopus, who goes in the middle.

Octopus or coach calls a group and they run across the grid.

Octopus tries to tag or rip flags from the runners.

If tagged or ripped, the runner goes to the point they were caught and stands there.

On the octopus’ next call, stationary runner can rip or tag, but they can’t move feet. (They have become an octopus’s

tentacle.)


Increase or decrease the size of the grid.

Octopus can call both groups at once.

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Rats & Rabbits

OBJECTIVE: To develop speed, acceleration, reaction time and evasive skills

EQUIPMENT: 8-10 cones


AREA: 15 x 30 metre grid depending on the size of the group

DRILL SET-UP: Players pair off and stand side by side in lines. One line is called “Rats”, the other “Rabbits”. A line is marked 10-30 metres

parallel to both groups.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

On the call 'Rats', the Rats sprint out towards their line.

At the same time the Rabbits chase the Rats and try to tag them on their waists.

Points are given for tags that are made.

When 'Rabbits' is called the reverse happens ie the Rats give chase.

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Ratz Rush

OBJECTIVE: To improve players’ evasive running and tackling

EQUIPMENT: 10-16 cones to mark area


AREA: 20 x 20 metre grid or larger

DRILL SET-UP:

Players line up on one side of the grid, with one player selected as the defender in the middle

DRILL EXPLANATION:

On the coach's call, players must run from one line to the opposite line without being tackled by the selected defender.

Once tackled, that player joins the defending team.

This continues until the last attacking player is declared the winner.

No more than one defender at a time should attempt to tackle any one player.

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Touchdown

OBJECTIVE: To improve handling and reactions of players

EQUIPMENT: One ball, one cone



DRILL SET-UP: Teams are arranged in two lines 4-5 metres apart facing their opposite number.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

The ball is passed up and down one of the lines.

On 'go', the player who has the ball must run around their own team and ground the ball next to the cone before being

tagged by their opposite number in the other line. (The opposite player must run the same path as the player with the ball.)

A team scores one point for each successful touchdown.

If the opposite player tags the runner, the other team gains the ball for the restart.


Other balls can be introduced.

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Corner Ball

OBJECTIVE: Quick passing between teams

EQUIPMENT: One ball, four cones

GROUP SIZE: 10-20 players split into two teams


DRILL SET-UP: Both teams stand inside the grid marked out by cones

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Players must not run outside the grid.

The ball is passed amongst the members of one of the teams with the aim being to corner and tag a member of the opposite

team with the ball.

All members can move anywhere in the area but once the player is in possession of the ball they must not move.

The team loses possession when the ball is dropped. [newline] 5. Once a player is tagged they must leave the game.

When the ball is dropped, those who have been tagged re-enter the game.


The team being tagged can try and intercept the ball to regain possession.

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Follow The Coach

OBJECTIVE: Improve communication and reactions.


GROUP SIZE: Two - team

AREA: Large

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Players form pairs and position themselves so that only one player in each pair can see the coach.

Each pair has a ball and the drill starts with the player in each pair, separated by one metre, passing back and forward to

one another.

The coach blows the whistle and at the same time points in a direction they want the players to go.

The player who can see immediately goes in that direction and the other player adjusts.


Introduce groups of four players.

Call out direction, ie left, right, forward, etc.

17

Passing Circle

OBJECTIVE: To develop good passing and catching technique


GROUP SIZE: 6–8 in each group

AREA: 10m x 10m

DRILL SET-UP: Players should stand in a circle. One circle competed against another, with all players facing outwards.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Players pass the ball around the circle from one player to the next.

The winner is

The team that completes the circle first;

The team that completes the greater number of passes in a set time; or

The team that makes a certain number of passes without a drop.


Perform the drill jogging on the spot.

Increase the distance of the pass.

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Pick & Place

OBJECTIVE:

To safely secure the ball from the ground

EQUIPMENT: 5-8 balls



DRILL EXPLANATION:

Players form a single file. The first player picks up each ball in turn, run two metres with it and places them randomly

around the grid.

The second player begins when the first player is halfway through the grid.

The third begins when the second is halfway around and so on.

Players rejoin the end of the line after placing the last ball.


Diving on the ball and back onto feet.

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Shadow Run

OBJECTIVE: To practise quick evasive movement


GROUP SIZE: Any number, even number preferable

AREA: 20m x 20m

DRILL SET-UP: Players form up in pairs - if an odd number, form a group of 3.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

One of each pair has a ball.

On the coach's call the ball-carrier runs evasively at speed. The fellow group member tries to follow keeping only one

metre away.

Continue for 5–15 seconds depending on the pace desired. Give a similar period of recovery and repeat the drill.


On the coach's call, the ball-carrier turns, sets and feeds to their partner who becomes the front runner.

The ball-carrier faces the partner, who tries to remain directly in front of the ball-carrier. If the partner is passed, the

players swap roles.

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Evading The Player

OBJECTIVE: To practise beating the man one on one


GROUP SIZE: Two players


DRILL SET-UP: The defender starts at various points along the 15-metre line within the 22-metre line. The attacker starts outside the 22-metre

line with the ball.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

The player aims to beat the defender whilst staying inside the 15-metre line zone.

This can be done by way of sheer pace, change of pace, side-step, swerve, fend or chip kick.


Set of cones to condition player for judgment of swerve.

21

Tap Pass Tap

OBJECTIVE: To develop players’ tap and pass skills.

EQUIPMENT: 1 ball per line

GROUP SIZE: 4 -5 in each group

AREA: 5m x 15m

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Players are positioned along a straight line two arm’s length apart.

Players simply tap and pass the ball along to the next player, who simply reaches out to receive the ball, puts it on the

ground and repeats the tap and pass along to the next player. Player at the end of the line puts it down next to the cone.

Now players run to the next formed line and repeat the drill.

Next group of 4-5 run out and start drill using ball put down by first group.

Players return to start by running outside the grid back to the start.


Players can move to next line as soon as they have tapped and passed.

Spread players out more by making a bigger grid.

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OBJECTIVE: To develop communication, movement into space and ball familiarisation

EQUIPMENT: 10–12 cones to mark area, one ball

GROUP SIZE: Two even teams of 6–12 players

AREA: 15m x 15m

DRILL SET-UP: Players are divided into two equal teams and positioned inside the grid area.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

The players in the team that have the ball must touch the ball on the ground then pass to a team member.

Players in the opposing team have to intercept the ball from the team with the ball.

Ball-carrier cannot move with the ball.

Players are free to move within the boundary.

The other team pressures the ball-carriers (one metre away) into bad passes, or try to intercept the ball.

If the ball is intercepted or dropped, the other team becomes the passers.

First team to complete 6–10 passes (or designated number) gets a point.

Once a point is scored, the other team takes possession.

The ball-carrier can't pass back or to a person who has just passed to them, and there is a three second limit on the time

that the ball-carrier can hold the ball.

VARIATIONS/ PROGRESSION:

Limit the type of passes that players are able to give eg no netball passes or overhead passes.

Decrease the time that a player is able to hold the ball.

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Fitness Passing 1

OBJECTIVE: Maintain basic passing skills under pressure

EQUIPMENT: Three balls

GROUP SIZE: Five.

AREA: 8m x 8m

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Players stand on four corners of grid with player A in the middle.

Players B, C and D on three of the four corners have a ball while player E does not.

Player A faces player C and as he/she runs toward C, he/she catches a pass from B and gives to E.

When A is a couple of meters from C, C passes to A who immediately returns the ball, turns and runs back towards D,

catch/passing from E to B.

The exercise continues for a set time, a set number of loops, until the middle player drops the ball or reaches exhaustion.


Add another runner so two passes are being performed in the middle of the grid.

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Backline Formation

OBJECTIVE: To develop correct alignment, depth, speed and angles

EQUIPMENT: Two balls, four cones

GROUP SIZE: 10-14 players in each group

AREA: 25 x 25 meter grid

DRILL SET-UP: One halfback with the ball and two backlines lined out as shown in diagram.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

The halfback at position A passes the ball, setting the Backline A backline in motion.

As soon as the pass has been made, the halfback runs to position B, picks up the other ball, passes it and sets the Backline

B backline in motion.

Once that pass has been made, the halfback runs back to position A ready to pass to backline Backline A again.

The backlines should regroup into an attacking formation each time the ball has been passed along the backline.

Rotate players.


Have the players change positions so that they become accustomed to being out of position.

Include extra players entering the backline to penetrate a defensive line.

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Cone Passing

OBJECTIVE: Players will run onto the ball in correct alignment

EQUIPMENT: Four cones and one ball

GROUP SIZE: 5

AREA: 20m x 20m

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Ball is placed beside a cone and players line up along the edge of a square, one behind the other with the front player

beside the placed ball.

Ball is passed along the backline as the players fan out then straighten towards the adjacent side of the square.

Ball gets to last player before they reach the line, where they place it next to the cone.

Players realign on the line they have just crossed and restart the drill again.


Work two or more groups in same grid.

Reverse direction.

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Counterattack Drill 1

OBJECTIVE: Look at options in counterattack situation

EQUIPMENT: One ball for every 6–8 players

GROUP SIZE: Any number

AREA: Tryline to 10-metre line

DRILL SET-UP: In groups of 6–8 players

DRILL EXPLANATION:

One player starts on the 22m line (the receiver).

The remaining players start from behind the tryline.

The ball is kicked – an up-and-under, grubber or punt kick, to the receiver on the 22m line.

The remaining players sprint out to the 22m line and recover the ball from the receiver. They run and pass it or use a

rolling maul to return it to the tryline.

The activity continues with players rotating as the receiver and the kicker.


Instead of supporting, the other players attack the receiver whose object is to control possession and feed the ball back.

Divide the group into two, one that supports the receiver and one that attacks the receiver. The coach can let either group

go first depending on the pressure that is desired. The attack aims to counterattack; the defence tries to stop them.

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Force Back

OBJECTIVE: Put into practice a range of kicking skills.

EQUIPMENT: One ball.

GROUP SIZE: A team.

AREA: The field.

DRILL EXPLANATION: Groups advance only by kicking within the following rules:

The ball is kicked off from halfway as in a normal game.

If the ball is caught on the full, the catcher may advance 10 meters before kicking the ball again.

If the ball is dropped, the kicking team moves up to this mark and retains possession.

If the ball is recovered, but not caught, the next kick is made from the point of recovery.

When the ball goes into touch on the full:

If kicked from behind the 22-meter line the non-kicking team restarts play 15 meters infield from where the kick went into

touch.

If kicked from in front of the 22-meter line the non-kicking team restarts play at the point where the original kick was

taken.

Points are scored by

Punting the ball between the goalposts - one point

Drop-kicking the ball between the goalposts - three points


Add in a given number of passes that must be made before kicking.

Add a second ball.

With young players, a point may be scored when the ball is kicked across the tryline.

If you have fewer players, a smaller area is suitable.

29

Pair Kicking

OBJECTIVE: To improve players’ ability to kick accurately

EQUIPMENT: One ball for each pair of players

GROUP SIZE: Any number depending on the number of balls


DRILL SET-UP: The group is split in two. Players line up opposite another person. Each pair has a ball.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Players kick the balls accurately to one another across the grid.

Punts and drop-kicks should be made so they can be caught on the full.

Grubber kicks: the ball should be almost stopped as it reaches the partner.


The coach may increase the pressure on players by reducing the time they have to kick the ball.

30

Rotational Kicking

OBJECTIVE: Improve accuracy of a variety of kicks and improve catching reactions.

EQUIPMENT: One ball for every player

GROUP SIZE: 8-10 players or any suitable number

AREA: Quarter or half field (depending on the number and skill level of players)

DRILL SET-UP: Players stand in a circle equally spaced, “kicking” distance apart, as shown in the diagram. All players stand by a cone with a

ball.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

On the coach's call 'kick', players kick accurately to the next player in an anti-clockwise direction. Each player

immediately runs in a clockwise direction to catch a ball that has been kicked.

Once the kicked balls have been recovered, the players return to the cones.

The drill continues.

Players receiving the ball can catch or trap the ball, depending on player's accuracy.

To avoid disorganization, the coach must retain tight control.


Make area bigger.

31

4-Corner Mauling Drill

OBJECTIVE: To maintain ball control under pressure.

EQUIPMENT: Four balls, tackle suits, cones.

GROUP SIZE: Groups of 5–6 players.

AREA: 10m x 10m.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

An attacker picks ball up and drives towards the target (centre of grid).

When the player meets the suits (defenders), a maul is formed.

When the coach is satisfied that the maul is moving forward and the control is good, they signal 'break' and the forwards

go around the cone and pick up ball 2 and repeat the drill.

Four repetitions are completed.


Instead of suits, use hit shields.

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Ruck Same Way

OBJECTIVE: Players consider options at ruck time.

EQUIPMENT: Six hit shields, tackle suits, balls.

GROUP SIZE: Groups of 4.

AREA: Varied.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

First person hits and goes to ground.

Next three players blow or pick and go.

Player can attempt to steal ball from an onside position.

Attacking team recycles ball and moves to next defenders.

Ensure that both directions are taught.


Add/remove tacklers.

Change numbers on attack.

Size of grid.

33

Continuous Drift

OBJECTIVE: Understanding drift defence

EQUIPMENT: Four cones, two balls

GROUP SIZE: Eight or more

AREA: 10m x 20m

DRILL SET-UP: As in diagram.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Attackers try to score on the other side.

Defenders must attempt to stop them, using drift defence.

Once they score, or are stopped, then the other attackers start with defenders shifting to opposite end of rectangle, hence

continuous drifting.


Flanker or player inside.

Defender on knees cleaning up inside.

34

Defence Decision

OBJECTIVE: To practice defensive options

EQUIPMENT: Three cones, one ball

GROUP SIZE: Groups of 7

AREA: 10m x 10m

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Attacking group runs around their cone and attacks 'tryline' behind defenders' last cone.

Two defenders run around first cone and last defender goes around last cone.

Halfback passes to attackers.

Defenders work on man-on-man defensive pattern with back defender taking extra player.

Attackers try to score.


First defender plays man-on-man; other defenders drift.

35

2 To Score

OBJECTIVE: Practice the draw and pass or dummy.

EQUIPMENT: One ball per two attackers.

GROUP SIZE: 3 - 4 defenders / 10 - 12 attackers.

AREA: 7 x 20 meter grid.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Two attackers run up the grid with the ball.

Defenders are placed every five meters but can only move sideways - not forwards or backwards.

The attacker's aim is to score at the other end.

The attackers and the defenders swap positions after the attackers have been up and down the channel twice.


Defenders move forward or back to put pressure on the defenders.

Decrease the grid size to give the attackers less time and space.

36

2 v 1

OBJECTIVE: To practice passing in space



AREA: Half field

DRILL EXPLANATION:

A runs forward at pace and commits the defender to create an overlap for B.

Initially the defender Z marks A only.

Defenders may form a single line up the field about 10m apart.

Each group of two attackers should attempt the drill against all the defenders.


When technique improves allow the defender to move towards A or B.

37

Opposed 2 v 1

OBJECTIVE: To practice beating a defender as a pair.

EQUIPMENT: One ball per group.

GROUP SIZE: Four players.


DRILL EXPLANATION:

The feeder A passes to B.

B or C must then between them score by beating D – no kicking.

The attackers can beat their opponent by passing or evading.

Starting positions to be varied by both the attackers and the defenders.

Opponent to be conditioned to defend as appropriate ie touch or tackle.

Repeat for the first pair as necessary

38

Pressure Pass

OBJECTIVE: Develop good technique and accuracy of the pass.

EQUIPMENT: Up to six balls.

GROUP SIZE: Three players for each ball.

AREA:

10 x 22 meter grid.

DRILL SET-UP: Place players into three groups. Groups A and B line up facing each other and Group C lines up as shown in the diagram.

Groups A and B should be between 10 and 15 meters apart.

The individual players of Groups A and B stand between five and 10 metres apart. Each player of Group A starts with a

ball.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Player 1 of Group C runs/jogs down between Groups A and B receiving passes from Group A and passing on to the

players opposite in Group B.

With the balls now with Group B, player 2 in Group C links a pass from Group B to Group A, player 3 in Group C then

links a pass from Group A to Group B.

When all players from Group C have gone through the drill, they run around the outside and join the end of Group C.



Arrange the players so two Group C players are running down the centre at one time.

Vary the distance between Group A & B.

39

Watch Out

OBJECTIVE: Develop good technique and accuracy of the pass under pressure

EQUIPMENT: 10 cones / one ball per pair

GROUP SIZE: Nine in each group

AREA: 5m x 5m (smaller for young players)

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Two players draw and pass on first defender.

Once passed, the first defender can then chase from behind and tackle legally.

Once the two players pass D2, then D2 turns and chases.

With two defenders coming from behind, the two attacking players need to score past the third defender.

Move from low confrontation to high confrontation.

40

Ball Control

OBJECTIVE: To improve a player's ability to dribble kick accurately and control the ball.

EQUIPMENT: One ball, 4 cones.

GROUP SIZE: 8+ players


DRILL SET-UP: Player dribbles the ball along the channel until they get about 5m from the end where they:

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Dive onto the ball and get to their feet.

Five onto the ball for a try.

Pick up the ball from the ground.

Let the ball bounce up into their hands.

41

Order Ball

OBJECTIVE: To improve ball-handling skills.

EQUIPMENT: One ball.

GROUP SIZE: Two teams of four, five or six players.

AREA: 10m x 10m.

DRILL SET-UP: Two teams grouped within the grid.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Each player in the team is given a number.

The ball must be passed through the team in order (1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 1).

The players are free to move only within the boundary.

The ball-carrier can move when they have the ball.

The other team tries to pressure the team with the ball into bad passes or to intercept the pass.

The ball changes team if it is dropped or intercepted.

VARIATIONS / PROGRESSION: Introduce a second ball.

42

Basic Tackle

OBJECTIVE: To practice techniques with the side/front-on tackle and falling in the tackle

EQUIPMENT: 3–4 cones

GROUP SIZE: 7

AREA: Small

DRILL SET-UP: Tackler stands facing three attackers who are next to cones

DRILL EXPLANATION:

On their knees, tackler makes three tackles: two side-on and one front-on.

Upon making the three tackles each player rotates and the drill continues.


Tackler on knees - Attackers walking.

Tackler on knees - Attackers jogging.

Tackler on knees - Attackers running.

4 - 6 repeat 1 - 3 with tackler in a crouch.

43

Stop A Try

OBJECTIVE: To stop forward momentum of the ball-carrier. To regain possession of the ball.

EQUIPMENT: Four cones and one ball.


AREA: 5m x 5m.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Attackers stand in line, facing defenders opposite

Attackers one at a time try to score a try on try line.

Defender does a side-on tackle to save the try.

If successful, defender gets up quickly, gets the ball and gives it to next attacker.

Drill continues, then roles are reversed.

44

Lifting A Grounded Ball

OBJECTIVE: Able to pick up a ball from the ground near an obstacle.

EQUIPMENT: At least four tackle bags and four balls.

GROUP SIZE: Any number of forwards.


DRILL SET-UP: Individually or in pairs. Set out the tackle bags five meters apart in a line and place a ball beside each tackle bag as shown in

the diagram.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

On 'go' the first player sprints forward, picks up the first ball and runs over the tackle bag.

The player carries and places the ball by the second tackle bag, picks up the second ball, runs over the second tackle bag

carrying the ball and places it beside the third tackle bag.

The activity continues until the player reaches the last tackle bag. The player takes the ball from beside the last tackle bag

and places it beside the first tackle bag.

The second player runs forward and the drill continues until all players have completed the activities.


Run in pairs with one player lifting and feeding the ball to the partner, who places the ball beside the next tackle bag.

45

Pick & Place

OBJECTIVE: To safely secure the ball from the ground.

EQUIPMENT: 5-8 balls.

GROUP SIZE: 15-20 players.


DRILL EXPLANATION:

Players form a single file. The first player picks up each ball in turn, run two meters with it and places them randomly

around the grid.

The second player begins when the first player is halfway through the grid.

The third begins when the second is halfway around and so on.

Players rejoin the end of the line after placing the last ball.


Diving on the ball and back onto feet.

46

Pick Up Place

OBJECTIVE: To practise handling the ball on the ground

EQUIPMENT: Four balls per group



DRILL SET-UP: Four balls are placed on the ground in the middle of the grid.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

The first four players run out, pick up their ball and pass it to the player diagonally opposite them.

The next four players run out and replace the balls and continue across the grid.

The next four pick up and pass and so on.


6-8-cone grid. Receiver lying on ground.

47

Support & Pass

OBJECTIVE: To practice passing and picking up the ball


GROUP SIZE: Three players per group

AREA: Small

DRILL SET-UP: Three players standing in line.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

The first player runs out and places the ball on the ground and then turns and becomes a defender.

The other two players follow, one behind the other as attackers.

The front person of the attackers picks up the ball and draws and passes to the support player who should have moved into

space.

48

Multi Man Drills

OBJECTIVE: To utilize a numbers of players in contact situations to retain possession

EQUIPMENT: One ball between groups.

GROUP SIZE: 4–8 players.

AREA: 15m x 50m.

DRILL EXPLANATION: The following drills are all variations on the same pattern. The pattern is as follows:

The first player runs out 10 meters, places the ball, runs another five metres, turns and becomes a defender.

The remaining players perform the designated skill against the defender and then the player who ends up with the ball after

the skill is performed runs five metres ahead, places the ball, continues on and becomes the new defender.

The original defender then rejoins the attacking group who again performs the required skill against the new defender.

The pattern continues for the length of the grid.


Player A places the ball, runs out 10 meters and becomes the defender. Player B picks up, runs towards A, commits the

player and passes to C. Player C receives the pass, runs through and places the ball and becomes the defender. Player A

joins the attackers.

Player D picks up the ball. The drill continues.

Player A places the ball, runs out 10 meters, places and becomes the defender. Player B picks up, runs into Player A and

recoils. Player C rips and passes to Player D who runs 10 meters, places and becomes the defender. The drill continues.

Player A places the ball, runs out 10 meters and becomes the defender. Player B picks up the ball, runs into Player A and

hits, and drives then drops before placing the ball. Player C steps over, picks up, passes the ball to Player D who runs five

meters, places and becomes the new defender.

This drill is the same as No 2 above except that instead of a simple rip and pass, two blocks are incorporated. As a result, a

mini-maul is formed with the ripper passing to the 6th player who places and becomes the defender.

49

This drill is similar to No 3 above except that the defender, after having the initial ball-carrier drive into him and drop, is

taken out by the next two attacking players. The next player in, steps over the ball and passes to the final player who runs

on, places the ball and becomes the defender.

This drill is the same as No 4 except that two more passes are incorporated into the pattern. Thus the mini-maul is set and

the remaining players form a mini-backline. The ball is passed along it with the last pass being a switch pass or a pop-pass

back inside. The receiver of this pass runs on, places the ball and becomes the defender.

This drill is the same as No 5 except that two more passes are incorporated into the pattern. This means that after the mini-

ruck is performed, the remaining players form a mini-backline that passes laterally until the last pass. The last pass is then

a switch pass or a pop-pass inside. The receiver of this pass runs on, places the ball and becomes the defender.

50

Simple Contact

OBJECTIVE: To place players in contact situations to retain possession.

EQUIPMENT: 4 cones, hit shields and 3 balls between groups.



DRILL EXPLANATION:

The first player runs out five meters and makes contact with the first hit shield and drives it back a couple of meters.

The player then moves toward the next hit shield and repeats the contact.

As soon as the first player moves to the second hit shield, the second player runs toward the first hit shield.



Hit, go to ground and place.

Hit and spin.

Go in pairs with support player picking up the ball and moving to second contact zone. First player gets up and becomes

support player.

51

Step & Drive

OBJECTIVE: Use of binding to go into a contact situation.

EQUIPMENT: Tackle bag and hit shield.

GROUP SIZE: 4+.

AREA: 10m x 10m.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Tackle bags and hit shields are laid out in a 10m square with a tackle bag and a hit shield on each corner.

The bags are on the ground with a shield holder standing over them.

Players are paired up and lie on their back with their feet facing away from the first bag.

On the coach's signal the first pair get to their feet and take a tight bind on each other as they step over the tackle bag and

drive into the shield holder.

Here they move to the second tackle bag and repeat the drill, until all bags have been done.


Introduce more obstacles to practise contact elements.

52

1 On 1

OBJECTIVE: To ensure correct technique for building a scrum

EQUIPMENT: Scrum machine

AREA: Small

GROUP SIZE: One on one.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Using a scrum machine, if possible, get individual players to work through the pre-engagement and engagement routines.

Coach to check for correctness.

On knees, facing each other, and at a safe distance apart, player A engages (binds) with player B.

Coach checks for correct techniques.

When everything is right, coach gets players A & B to dig toes in and push slightly. This will get their knees off the

ground.

53

3 On 3

OBJECTIVE: To ensure correct technique for building a scrum

EQUIPMENT: Scrum machine

AREA: Small

GROUP SIZE: Six

DRILL SET-UP: See diagram.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Using a scrum machine, if possible, get individual players to work through the pre-engagement and engagement routines.

Coach to check for correctness.

On knees, facing each other, and at a safe distance apart, group A line up facing group B.

Coach checks for correct techniques.

When everything is right, coach gets group A & B to 'crouch, touch, pause' then 'engage'.

Look at techniques.

54

The Step

OBJECTIVE: To practice stepping off both feet

EQUIPMENT: One ball, five cones per group

GROUP SIZE: 4–5 players

AREA: 10m x 10m

DRILL SET-UP: Players stand together on the line facing out to the cones.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

First player runs with the ball in two hands out to the centre cone.

On reaching the cone, the player steps off the right foot then runs out around the outer cone and back to the waiting group,

passing the ball to the next runner, who repeats the drill.


Have all players involved in drill.

55

Basic Tackle

OBJECTIVE: To practice techniques with the side/front-on tackle and falling in the tackle.

EQUIPMENT: 3–4 cones.

GROUP SIZE: 7

AREA: Small

DRILL SET-UP: Tackler stands facing three attackers who are next to cones.

DRILL EXPLANATION: On their knees, tackler makes three tackles: two side-on and one front-on. Upon making the three tackles each player rotates

and the drill continues.


Tackler on knees - Attackers walking.

Tackler on knees - Attackers jogging.

Tackler on knees - Attackers running.

4 - 6 repeat 1 - 3 with tackler in a crouch.

56

Grid Tackling

OBJECTIVE: To practice tackling from a side-on approach.

EQUIPMENT: Four cones.



DRILL SET-UP: The tackler stands in the middle of the grid with three players lined up on cones A and B.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

The aim of the players at cone A is to pass through the grid and to run though to cone C, and for players at cone B to pass

through the grid and run through to cone D.

The player in the middle of the grid attempts to tackle alternating runners.

As soon as the tackler stands up from making the tackle the next player from the opposite cone sets off.


Have attackers running with ball in hand.

57

Grid Tackling Variation

OBJECTIVE: Make a side-on tackle.

EQUIPMENT: Four cones, balls.


AREA: 5m x 5m

DRILL SET-UP: Four cones, 5m x 5m grid with four players grouped at two different cones.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Player from team A runs to cone C.

Player from team B makes side-on tackle, regains ball and joins team A.


Change tacklers and attackers so both shoulders are used.

Bring in support players to contest ball.

58

Pick Up/Tackle Competition

OBJECTIVE: To practice ball pick-up and chasing/tackling from behind/ in-front

EQUIPMENT: Two cones, one or more balls

GROUP SIZE: The more balls available the greater the number of players who can be involved

AREA: 22m x 22m

DRILL SET-UP: Two lines of players form, each line facing a cone which is positioned 10–15 meters from the lines and 10m apart. A ball is

placed between the two cones.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

On 'go', the front players from each group sprint around their cone and compete for the ball.

The first runner to the ball picks it up and attempts to score back at the start line.

The second player must try to prevent the player with the ball reaching the line by tackling them from behind.


The coach uses additional balls as soon as the initial ball has been picked up. This adds pace to the drill.

More than one player from each line sprints out.

Defender runs in opposite direction behind team to make a front-on tackle.

59

Tackle Bag Drive

OBJECTIVE: To work on driving through tackles.

EQUIPMENT: Four tackle bags.

GROUP SIZE: Any number.


DRILL SET-UP: Four tackle bags are arranged in a line, each bag having two players holding it. The remaining players are grouped 5m back

from the bags. The bags are each given a nominated number 1 - 4.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

A nominated player runs in to a specified bag, lifting the bag in the tackle and driving it down the field for 2-3 meters.

The two players holding the bag offer resistance.

The players are rotated throughout the drill.


As one player's drive comes to a halt a second player joins the drive with the two players binding and driving together.

60

Contact Squares 2

OBJECTIVE: Getting the ball off the ground


GROUP SIZE: 8+

AREA: 10m x 10m

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Players are paired up and placed on each corner of the grid with a ball about 1-2m in front of them.

On the coach’s signal each pair runs to the opposite corner of the grid.

The player arriving then “baseball” slides on the ball, gets to their feet and the second quickly comes into secure and drive.

Each pair drives in a controlled manner to the centre of the grid making contact with the other players doing the same.

Pairs make contact in the congested grid centre and either continue to drive through the middle or roll off other pairs on

their return to the starting cones.


Vary by different ways of picking up the ball.

Use in tackle situation (turnover).

61

Contact Three

OBJECTIVE: To practice contact situations

EQUIPMENT: Four tackle bags, four hit shields, four tackle suits, one ball, and two cones

GROUP SIZE: 16 players


DRILL EXPLANATION:

Four players work up and down the channel, passing the ball.

On the coach's command the ball is placed on the ground and the players each drive into a hit shield.

After being driven back to the cones, the shield holders drop their shields and sprint across the channel and hit the tackle

bags.

After the tackle is made, the bag holders secure the grounded ball and attack as a unit into the suited players.

Suited players stay for a set number of attacks while the other groups of four continue through the sequence to the various

positions.

62

Hit & Support

OBJECTIVE: To develop correct technique, timing and ball presentation at contact

EQUIPMENT: Two hit shields, one ball

GROUP SIZE:

10 players

AREA: 10m x 10m

DRILL EXPLANATION:

The first player of the first pair runs out with the ball, hits and spins off the hit shield and offloads to the receiver who

comes from the ball-carrier's right-hand side.

The receiver then throws a pass to the player in the next column who repeats the drill with their partner.

The sequence followed should be: hit, spin, offload, pass, hit, spin, offload etc.

63

Multi Man Drills

OBJECTIVE:

To utilize a numbers of players in contact situations to retain possession

EQUIPMENT:

One ball between groups


AREA: 15m x 50m

DRILL EXPLANATION: The following drills are all variations on the same pattern. The pattern is as follows:

The first player runs out 10 meters, places the ball, runs another five meters, turns and becomes a defender.

The remaining players perform the designated skill against the defender and then the player who ends up with the ball after

the skill is performed runs five meters ahead, places the ball, continues on and becomes the new defender.

The original defender then rejoins the attacking group who again performs the required skill against the new defender.



Player A places the ball, runs out 10 meters and becomes the defender. Player B picks up, runs towards A, commits the

player and passes to C. Player C receives the pass, runs through and places the ball and becomes the defender. Player A

joins the attackers.

Player D picks up the ball. The drill continues.

Player A places the ball, runs out 10 meters, places and becomes the defender. Player B picks up, runs into Player A and

recoils. Player C rips and passes to Player D who runs 10 meters, places and becomes the defender.


Player A places the ball, runs out 10 meters and becomes the defender. Player B picks up the ball, runs into Player A and

hits, and drives then drops before placing the ball.

Player C steps over, picks up, passes the ball to Player D who runs five meters, places and becomes the new defender.

64

Step & Drive

OBJECTIVE: Use of binding to go into a contact situation

EQUIPMENT: Tackle bag and hit shield

GROUP SIZE: 4+

AREA: 10m x 10m

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Tackle bags and hit shields are laid out in a 10m square with a tackle bag and a hit shield on each corner.

The bags are on the ground with a shield holder standing over them.

Players are paired up and lie on their back with their feet facing away from the first bag.

On the coach’s signal the first pair get to their feet and take a tight bind on each other as they step over the tackle bag and

drive into the shield holder.

Here they move to the second tackle bag and repeat the drill, until all bags have been done.

VARIATIONS / PROGESSION:

Introduce more obstacles to practise contact elements.

65

Pommy

OBJECTIVE: In an opposed situation, players are running the correct angles

EQUIPMENT: 10 cones and two balls

GROUP SIZE: 11 in each group

AREA: 10m x 15m

DRILL SEP-UP: Two or three teams of three players (A and B) attack against two or three teams of defenders (C and D).

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Team A run forward, receive a ball from the halfback and attempt to get over the tryline inside the right-hand cone.

The two defensive players run around the top cone and attempt to defend against the attacking three players.

Team B attack against Team D.

VARIATION / PROGRESSION:

Restrict the space to put more pressure on the attacking players.

Increase or decrease the number of attackers versus defenders.

66

Back & Forth

OBJECTIVE: Develop good technique and accuracy of the pass under pressure

EQUIPMENT: One ball for every nine players

GROUP SIZE: Nine players in each group


DRILL SET-UP: As shown in the diagram

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Players A, B and C run across the grid passing from Players A to B to C.

Having crossed the grid, C passes to D, B must turn quickly to link the passes from D to E as the player D, B and E run

back across the grid.

Once across the grid E passes to F, B links the passes from F to G as these players F, B and G run back across the grid.

Player G passes to H and the drill continues until B has run 10 shuttles.

Players rotate until all have run as player B.

Reducing the grid size puts more pressure on player B.


Have two players run the shuttle, the first receiver doubling around the second receiver as they cross the grid.

Place a tackle bag in the path of Player B. This has to be evaded.

Two tackle bags are held in the path of B, who has the option of passing before reaching the bags, whilst running between

the bags or after having run between the bags. The gap between the bags should be about 10cm.

67

Pressure Pass

OBJECTIVE: Develop good technique and accuracy of the pass

EQUIPMENT:

Up to six balls

GROUP SIZE: Three players for each ball


DRILL SET-UP

Place players into three groups. Groups A and B line up facing each other and Group C lines up as shown in the diagram.

Groups A and B should be between 10 and 15 meters apart.

The individual players of Groups A and B stand between five and 10 meters apart. Each player of Group A starts with a

ball.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Player 1 of Group C runs/jogs down between Groups A and B receiving passes from Group A and passing on to the

players opposite in Group B.

With the balls now with Group B, player 2 in Group C links a pass from Group B to Group A, player 3 in Group C then

links a pass from Group A to Group B.

When all players from Group C have gone through the drill, they run around the outside and join the end of Group C.



Arrange the players so two Group C players are running down the centre at one time.

Vary the distance between Group A & B

68

Continuity Combo 1

OBJECTIVE: Obtain the fundamentals of passing off the ground

EQUIPMENT: Ball

GROUP SIZE: 8+

AREA: 10m channel

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Divide players into two groups and line them up in single file with about 5-6 m separating the groups.

Place a ball on field line a few meters in front of one of the groups.

First player from that group advances to the ball and passes the ball away in one action to the first player advancing from

the second group who has sufficient depth to enable them to place the ball back on the line on the run.

Players move up in pairs so that as soon as the ball is placed it is immediately passed across to a member of the other

group by the second player in close support.


Don’t restrict players to placing ball on line.

69


OBJECTIVE: To introduce a pass with presentational pressures

EQUIPMENT: Two balls



DRILL SET-UP: As shown in the diagram

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Player delivers the ball in a variety of ways to the halfback - rolling along the ground - with a high pass - with a low pass -

with an awkward pass or by placing it on the ground.

The halfback passes to the two five-eighths - one to the left and one to the right.

The five-eighths are a static target.

The five-eighths return the ball to the feeder.



The five-eighths may vary their positioning on the ball eg width, depth, running onto the ball, angle of running.

A second five-eighth can position themselves outside the first five-eighth.

Doesn’t have to be the halfback.

70


OBJECTIVE: No back lift with off-ground pass

EQUIPMENT: Five balls, ideally a fence or a wall but adequate substitutes are two tables or five cones



DRILL SET-UP: One halfback and one first five-eighth in a normal position

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Place the balls against the fence/wall/table/cones so there can be no backlift by the halfback before passing the ball.

The halfback goes to the first ball and, in one movement, passes the ball to the first five-eighth.

The halfback moves to the next ball, repeating the action.

The halfback should practice the skill with the first five-eighth, both standing and moving onto the ball.



Passing with one hand only.

Use medicine balls.

If there is no wall or fence available, this drill can be practised on an open field.

Not always halfback.

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Evading The Player

OBJECTIVE: To practice beating the man one on one




DRILL SET-UP: The defender starts at various points along the 15-meter line within the 22-meter line. The attacker starts outside

the 22-meter line with the ball.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

The player aims to beat the defender whilst staying inside the 15-meter line zone.

This can be done by way of sheer pace, change of pace, side-step, swerve, fend or chip kick.


Set of cones to condition player for judgment of swerve.

72

Contact Squares 2

OBJECTIVE: Getting the ball off the ground


GROUP SIZE: 8+

AREA: 10m x 10m

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Players are paired up and placed on each corner of the grid with a ball about 1-2m in front of them.

On the coach’s signal each pair runs to the opposite corner of the grid.

The player arriving then “baseball” slides on the ball, gets to their feet and the second quickly comes into secure and drive.

Each pair drives in a controlled manner to the centre of the grid making contact with the other players doing the same.

Pairs make contact in the congested grid centre and either continue to drive through the middle or roll off other pairs on

their return to the starting cones.


Vary by different ways of picking up the ball.

Use in tackle situation (turnover).

73

Diving On The Ball

OBJECTIVE:

Practice diving onto and cleanly retrieving a ball on the ground

EQUIPMENT: One ball


AREA:

22m x 15m

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Attacking players play walking soccer, dribbling the ball and passing from the start line towards the goal-line.

To score, one of them must dive on and execute a clean retrieve of the ball over the tryline. It cannot be the player who

dribbled it over the line.

Attacking players may not dribble the ball directly over the tryline from anywhere beyond the 10m 'FOUL LINE' - a line

set-up 10m out from the tryline.

Defender prevents a score by falling cleanly on the ball and regaining their feet, either in the field of play or over the

tryline.

If defender does this, they grubber kick the ball back towards the start line. Attackers regroup and the drill continues.

Rotate players and keep the time short.


Introduce points.

Play with more players.

Vary the type of passes used.

74

Tackle Chase

OBJECTIVE: To simulate making a quick succession of tackles

EQUIPMENT: Four hit shields

GROUP SIZE: Eight players


DRILL SET-UP: Four players each hold up a hit shield in a grid formation. The remaining players line up alongside one of the

shields.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

On 'go', the first tackler runs in and makes a tackle on the first shield.

On completing the tackle, the player gets to their feet and quickly moves on to the second shield and makes a tackle.

When the first tackler has completed the first tackle and moved on, the second tackler begins on the first shield.

The process continues with the aim being for each tackler in the circuit trying to catch the tackler in front of them.


Add more shields into the drill to increase intensity of the drill.

75

Pass & Press

OBJECTIVE: To improve conditioning, handling, timing and team work


GROUP SIZE: Four

AREA: Small

DRILL EXPLANATION:

Players, one with a ball, adopt a squat position at the corner of a small square.

On the coach's signal the ball-carrier passes in a nominated direction and then drops to the ground and does one pushup.

The next player does the same and the drill continues.


Introduce six players to the grid and make a circle. Now do two push ups and a set-up.

76

Tackle & Drive

OBJECTIVE: To practice moving quickly from a tackle to a maul situation

EQUIPMENT: 4–5 tackle bags, 4–5 hit shields



DRILL SET-UP: 4–5 players line up on line A. Opposite each player is a tackle bag (line B) and a hit shield (line C). A player holds each of

these.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

The players in line A run out together and tackle the bags at line B.

After quickly getting to their feet they move on and drive into the shields at line C.

When they have driven the shield to line D they turn, run back and tackle the bag at line B again and then return to line A.

One circuit is now complete.


Position a ball on the ground two metres before the hit shield.

Players pick up the ball before driving into the shield.

On the way back, the players replace the ball where it was picked up.

77

Half Back Pass

OBJECTIVE: To practise giving a pass from the ground

EQUIPMENT: 1-2 balls



DRILL EXPLANATION:

Players stand on the corner of the grid.

A ball is placed on the ground behind one of the players.

The player places their right foot beside the ball and throws a halfback pass to the left (anti-clockwise).

The receivers place the ball in front of them.

The passer runs to the ball and passes to the next receiver.

This continues until the third receiver places the ball, at which point the passer throws a diagonal pass across the grid.

The passer then returns to their original position.

The last receiver then places the ball on the ground and begins the process himself or herself.


Increase the length and number of passes.

78


OBJECTIVE: Improve the pass technique of players passing the ball off the ground

EQUIPMENT: One ball



DRILL SEP-UP: One halfback and three receivers. Three receivers in a triangle 10 metres apart.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

The ball is placed on the ground by Player 1.

The halfback (9) moves to the ball and passes it to Player 2, who places it on the ground.

The halfback now moves to Player 2 and passes the ball to Player 3.


The coach will decide when Player 9 will pass in the opposite direction, and when the players will change positions.

The receiving players may move from their cone and communicate with the halfback.


More players can convert the triangle into a square or a circle.

The receivers can deliver the ball in any one of a varied number of ways.

The receivers can roll the ball anywhere within the formation for the halfback to recover.

79

Tali

OBJECTIVE: Execute straight running with basic pass

EQUIPMENT: 10 cones / One ball

GROUP SIZE: Seven in each group


DRILL SEP-UP: Players set up as shown in the diagram. Four attackers vs three defenders.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

First attacker starts with the ball and must commit the defender before passing the supporting player.

Each player in turn must commit his or her defender, which enables an overlap for the outside player.

All attacking players must support the ball-carrier until they reach the tryline.


Close the space between the defenders.

Allow defender 3 to drift off the third passer.

Allow defenders 2 and 3 to drift off the second and third passers.

80

Continuous Game

OBJECTIVE: To promote talk and the use of space and overlap in defence

EQUIPMENT: Five balls, six cones

GROUP SIZE: 12 players

AREA: Half field - tryline to 22-meter line

DRILL SET-UP: Six cones are lined up along the five meter line and the balls are placed in a pile under the goalposts. Players split into four

defenders and eight attackers.

DRILL EXPLANATION:

One or two double-handed touches are allowed.

The aim is to score a try on the cones earning 1, 2, or 3 points.

The attacking team has two minutes to score as many tries as possible.

If the ball is dropped, intercepted, a try scored, or the designated number of touches completed, the attacking team drops

the ball and runs back to the start to begin with another ball.

The referee sends the defenders around one of the markers whilst the attackers are retrieving their new ball.

When the two minutes are up the teams change around.

81

Cut-Out & Double Around

OBJECTIVE: To practice support running after a cut-out pass




DRILL SET-UP: Players line up in a single backline, one pass length apart

DRILL EXPLANATION:

The player at the end of the line starts with the ball.

The line begins to run down the grid.

The player at the end of the line throws a cut-out pass to the third player.

The player who is cut-out doubles around the third player and receives a short lateral pass.

The ball-carrier then cut-out passes to the fifth player with the fourth player looping around to receive a short lateral pass.

The process repeats itself back in the opposite direction.

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New Ball

OBJECTIVE: To get players to quickly adapt their strategies

EQUIPMENT: 3–4 balls

GROUP SIZE: Two teams of 10–15 players per side

AREA: Full field

DRILL SEP-UP: Two teams as normal rugby game

DRILL EXPLANATION:

The game proceeds as for a normal rugby game.

Upon a signal from the coach a second ball is thrown to an area in the field where there are no players.

The first ball is now dead and the second ball is in play.

The players must adapt their strategy to cope with the new ball position.

The coach repeats the exercise.

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