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forwards lacking intensity

part of a under 14 coaching team. we're really struggling to get our forwards to produce any intensity at the breakdown. constantly being rucked of the ball. technically they know what to do just don't bring the right attitute come game day. any thoughts on developing. more competative mind set.

mobile Coach, England

1 answer

ANSWERS

Annabel DunnillCoach, England

Hi Mobile,

Tackling and contact is a mindset. For players that age it sounds like it could be a question of confidence at the end of the day.

You could start by taking everything back to basics. Get players tackling on their knees, engage with their shoulder first, cheek to cheek and ring of steel etc. Get your players to tackle and clear out at walking pace. It's vital at this stage to get players thinking about the process of the tackle and the technique. This repetition and feel for the tackle is vital. There's no point getting players to run full tilt at each other as it's just no fun and players are most likely going to get injured with poor technique. Positive reinforcement and praise when the correct technique is used is important.

Try not to focus on missed tackles or highlight this to your players, as long as the process is there and they're trying to implement the correct technique that's ok. At such a young age the most important thing is that they are enjoying their rugby, the mentality and confidence will follow with it!

Hope this helps.

Archie