Rugby is renowned for its dynamic and unpredictable nature, making it a sport suitable for individuals of various physical attributes, ages, and skill levels. Ollie Todd, the head of rugby at Box Hill School, is well-versed in the complexities of organizing or adjusting a rugby session with little warning. In a recent publication, he shared three versatile games that can be implemented to make the most of impromptu alterations.
When confronted with a sudden decrease in the number of players for a U15s session, Todd stressed the significance of establishing a framework of small-sided games as a basis to structure a session. These small-sided games not only enable coaches to adapt and modify in real-time, but also help conceal any lack of organization resulting from unforeseen changes. Todd outlined some fundamental adjustments for these games, such as simplifying rules to accommodate less experienced players and escalating difficulty to challenge more proficient players.
One of the primary strategies Todd employs is to adopt a lenient approach towards officiating for less experienced players to give them more opportunities to participate, even after making mistakes. Additionally, he encourages coaches to recognize quick thinking and to engage in discussions afterwards, particularly once the intensity has reduced. These practices not only serve to bolster the players’ confidence, but also contribute to a more inclusive and supportive training environment.
Another approach that Todd advocates is the use of game-specific targets in situation-specific settings. By establishing specific objectives for scoring or defending within a limited time frame, players are prompted to think strategically and make rapid decisions. This not only enhances their awareness of the game, but also aids in the development of critical thinking skills in high-pressure situations.
Moreover, Todd emphasized the importance of allowing the players to self-manage during the activities, enabling coaches to set up the next game while overseeing the ongoing session. By gradually familiarizing the players with the games and their respective setups, the transition between activities becomes smoother, allowing sessions to flow seamlessly and efficiently.
In addition to imparting these invaluable tips, Todd also referenced a recent survey where the readers of Rugby Coach Weekly expressed how the resources have positively impacted their coaching experience. According to the survey, the majority of respondents reported feeling more self-assured, effective, and inspired as a result of utilizing the coaching resources provided by Rugby Coach Weekly.
Rugby Coach Weekly is committed to providing established and user-friendly rugby drills, coaching sessions, practice plans, small-sided games, warm-ups, training tips, and advice. The publication has been at the vanguard of rugby coaching since 2005, offering valuable resources for grassroots youth coaches, drawing from best practices worldwide, and incorporating insights from the professional game.
In conclusion, the ability to adapt and modify rugby sessions at short notice is an essential skill for any coach, and Ollie Todd’s insights into setting up adaptable games offer a valuable resource for coaches facing sudden changes in their training schedules. By implementing these strategies, coaches can establish engaging and effective sessions that not only accommodate unforeseen challenges, but also contribute to the overall development of their players.