HOME Rugby Answers Rugby COACHING Q&A

Basic Game Plan - U9

Just wondering if anyone has formed a basic game plan for a 2nd year tackle team (U9) and how it went. I am thinking that the forwards at this age would be quicker to the breakdown if they knew exactly where the play will end up on the field...Thoughts and opinions please

Kelvin McGrathCoach, New Zealand

1 answer

ANSWERS

Heini Van StadenCoach, South Africa

Just teach the basics such as ball handling and tackling. However U9`s and so on when getting the ball always try to run alone through the defence, so I suggest that let them put the ball through the hands and let the forwards do the basics such as cleaning at rucks and driving mauls. Hope this will help.

JOIN SPORTPLAN FOR FREE

search our library of 1100+ rugby drills
create your own professional coaching plans
or access our tried and tested plans

Rugby

STAY CONNECTED

in more ways than one

sportplan_rugby

LATEST COACHING TRENDS

Offloading in Contact: Creating Second-Phase Opportunities

The offload is one of rugby's most devastating weapons when executed well, turning a defensive collision into a second-phase attacking opportunity. This article breaks down the technique, timing, and training progressions coaches need to develop confident offloaders at every level.

April 2026

Sportplan Coaching

Defensive Line Speed: How to Shut Down Space Before the Attack Begins

Defensive line speed is the single most important factor in shutting down attacking opportunities before they develop. This guide explores how to coach your defensive line to push up as a connected unit, communicate under pressure, and deny the opposition time and space.

April 2026

Sportplan Coaching