Sportplan rugby has played a large role in my team's love for the game!
Which defence system is the most effective for 15-man rugby and what drills can I use for the rush/sliding defence...especially to get the guys in the inside to slide with and close up the inside gap from the 2nd phase onwards.
I am trying to put together a season long coaching schedule for under 13s and under 14s covering all the aspects of the game
I need to make my 10 ,12 and 13 aware of the tackle line and the gain line, this in itself is not too difficult but I want to have some form of games (possible 3 different ones) that will emphasise the differance for both attack and defense
I need to keep a training diary and I have no clue as how to start one
Are there any drills to encourage three-quarters to quickly return to the midfield to defend 2nd phase possession? My U11s backs get drawn into rucks amp; mauls and leave the opposition too much attacking space in midfield. Thanks
Looking at developing a session through to and including the 3rd phase. Objective is play from scrum, with the 13 coming short. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.
My forwards constantly pick and go from the rucks in games and this is starving the backs from any ball. Is there anything I can do, drills etc, which would help them realise there is a time and a place for pick and go, but to do it every time narrows the game and it becomes ineffective and not good teamwork.
What is the current thinking regarding kickoff receiving alignment?
My fowards seem afraid to ruck and stand around the ruck while in the way of the scrum half trying to get the ball out to the backs. They also don't support the ball carrier while he is being tackled. Please help me with any suggestions!!!
Tips on scrumming stance for Props and Locks/2nd rows
During a recent U17's league game, the opposing side took two consecutive quick tap penalties. During a break in play shortly after, as the coach attending an injured player, I questioned the referee on the legality of this passage of play, as my understanding was that two consecutive quick taps, used to catch the opposition in an offside position and therefore gain terratorial advantage, was not allowed under current law. The referee responded that this law is at his discretion and when we discussed after the game, he stated there is no such aw and that it is a "gentlemens agreement". I have since reviewed the laws on penalties and there is no specific law preventing a side taking two quick tap penalties. Has anyone else come across this interpretation and how can this be managed consistantly if when watching elite games, such a move is not allowed yet can be allowed at junior level ?
I will be coaching under 10 next season and need some guidance on how to interpret the rules for the maul?
in more ways than one
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.
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.
The teams winning in 2026 aren't taking risks - they're grinding out territory with relentless pick-and-go phases. Here's how to coach it.
Coaches from around the world look to Sportplan for coaching confidence.