Ed's Update

Breaking down the breakdown and supporting the ball carrier

Good to see everyone today and nice to be out in the sunshine once again. There was some really good work and the kids are starting to take on more skills. However, I did think that by the end minds and bodies were beginning to flag a little in the heat!

It was useful for the kids to have someone different to listen to and also for the coaches to get some new ideas! Martin was using a number of methods to get the kids to understand the importance of the breakdown and how best to play it. Traditionally we have shown some willingness to stand and watch as our teammates have run with ball in hand for the try line. Last years’ rules allowed for that, as if that player was tackled the ball could be moved away without challenge. However, this year with competition for the ball after the tackle, if we don’t support each other the ball will be turned over to the opposition quickly.

We were also going over the best body position to allow the players to ruck. All of the players need to use this skill and having a very low body position to allow an upwards drive is what we were looking to achieve.

This is the most difficult new skill for the kids to learn this year and we will be doing a lot of it in game play during practice in weeks to come to make sure the kids are equipped to use it in the festivals coming up in October.