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 In each edition of New Zealand Coach, we’re aiming to give you a skill development section, selecting from a huge range of different sports.

This issue, we are talking rugby. Even if you don’t coach rugby, read on – you never know what sort of useful advice you’ll get by thinking outside the box and looking at how other codes develop skills amongst their players.

This section of drills comes from the modified games section of the NZRU Coaching Toolbox. This fantastic website gives you access to an online forum, ability to save skills and activities to your own personal folder and receive all the news updates – check it out at www.coachingtoolbox.co.nz.

Keeping the Ball Alive Overview

Objective:

Shield holders try to tag opponents in possession

Equipment:

Eight tackle shields, four cones, and one ball

Group Size:

8-10 Players

Area:

15 x 15 metre grid

Drill Set-up:

The group is divided into two teams. The players in one team all have tackle shields, the players in the second team are in possession of the ball.

Drill Explaination:

1. The aim of the game is to tag opponents whilst in possession of the ball.
2. When this is achieved, the player with the ball is eliminated.
3. Play continues until all have been eliminated. Players may run with the ball and pass it.
4. The coach may time how long it takes for one team to tag their opposition.