Hello, i am after some help with planning a half hour?

Rugby CoachCoach

Hi Matthew - I'm assuming you're coaching children, in which case keep it simple then - a game which starts off with simple tag \ grab tackle can easily be developed to include simple off loads, interspersed with a quick skill drill. e.g. 6 v 6 or 7 v 7, 20m by 20m pitch, tackled player simply passes as soon as they are touched. Then a quick 2 minute skill drill - have the ball carriers jog towards a "defender", initiate contact and then look to off load (don't concern yourself too much on the mechanics at this point), then back to the game to reinforce the new skill. 

Rugby CoachCoach

Hi Matthew

I'm with Andy on this one. Its key that you use games as a base to teach anything match specific as kids just want to play. There's no sense in using drills too much as the session can quickly stagnate. In my experience, much as Andy said, I find it most beneficial when you start with a game of touch with a simple pass once touched, then develop it as you go, ensuring that you stop play periodically for a quick demonstration, then straight back into a game. The kids love it and learn much quicker.

Good luck.

Rugby CoachCoach

Hi Matthew,

The key to teaching young child how to offload correctly is to work on the correct body position when going into contact. Keeping the ball away from the defender and then having the time and skill to transfer the ball to another player. Players also need to learn when to offload and when not to. Cut out 50 /50 passes. As mentioned above work progressively. When working with older players, upper body strength is key in an effective offload. They must have the strength to free their upper bodies from a tackle, get their hands free and pass.

Remember it took SBW many years, both on the pitch and in the gym to master the offload. Players need to work hard at it to be effective.

Cheers.