NZRU Coaching Toolbox

Technique

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TechniquePDF | Print | Email

THE BEST TECHNIQUE IS SAFE TECHNIQUE

Peak performance and injury prevention

Incorrect technique in the contact phases of the game causes many rugby injuries – some serious.

TACKLING

The tackle is where most of the injuries in rugby occur.

THE KEY FACTORS IN THE TACKLE

Sight target
Move forward into the tackle
Move slightly inside the ball-carrier (inside shoulder)
Face up!
Keep feet alive and position lead foot close to ball-carrier
Drive with the legs to make fi rm contact with the shoulder and with the head to the side
Punch arms forward and wrap around the ball-carrier
Continue power drive through to complete the tackle
Regain feet and recover ball.

RugbySmart 2009 Tackling Video

SMOTHER TACKLES

    • Smother tackles are not recommended for younger or less experienced players.
   • Build your players skills progressively – players should not attempt the smother tackle unless they have mastered the basic tackle technique.
    • The same steps apply as for any tackle (as outlined previously) except that contact is made between the waist and chest.
    • The arms should be wrapped around the ball carrier’s arms preventing the release of the ball.

TAKING THE BALL INTO CONTACT

The increases in injuries in the tackle are not just restricted to the tackler. Coaches should ensure that all players are aware of the correct technique for taking the ball into contact.

KEY FACTORS:

   1. Focus on contact zone
   2. Face up
   3. Eyes open
   4. Ball in two hands
   5. Low body position
   6. Body before ball
   7. Small steps on approach
   8. Wide ‘power’ step into contact
   9. Plant front foot close to defender’s feet
10. Contact side on with hard parts of body: e.g. shoulder, hips
11. Maintain low stable base, chin off chest, eyes open
12. Transfer ball at appropriate time

SCRUMMAGING

The scrum is an important means of restarting play and gaining control of a game. Using correct technique will not only reduce the chance of injuries, but will ensure teams can compete safely in this crucial area of the game. The key points of scrummaging that all coaches, players and referees should know instinctively are:

RugbySmart 2009 Scrummaging Video

SCRUM - PRE-ENGAGEMENT

    • Prepare for engagement on the ref’s call “crouch-touch-pause”
    • Front rows safe distance apart – crouched and bound
    • Hips and shoulders are all square
    • Bend at the knees and hips
    • Shoulders above hips at all times
    • Head up, chin off chest
    • Back straight – spine in line
    • Eyes focused on the target area
    • Weight off the heels and on the balls of your feet
    • If not in the correct position or feel unsafe shout: “NOT READY, REF”.
    • Never look away from your opponent once in the crouch position
    • Engage only on the ref’s call: “engage”

SCRUM - ENGAGEMENT

At least two-thirds of scrum training should be away from the scrum machines. One-on-one and 3-on-3 drills are excellent ways to build skills and improve techniques. Your Rugbysmart DVD has a section dedicated to this.

    • Drive from a low position up
    • Loose-head binds onto the torso the opposing tight-head’s back
    • Tight-head binds onto the torso of the opposing loose-head’s back
    • Binding should be firm and held until the scrum is completed

Referees will want to speak to your front row players and halfback before the game to discuss the engagement process, and to ensure all front row forwards are of sufficient experience and strength for the grade of game being played.

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