GAME DEVELOPMENT COACH EDUCATION CONTENTS 1. ABOUT THE MANUAL 2 2. ROLES OF THE COACH 3 3. HOW TO TEACH - ‘KEY SKILLS’ 4 4. RUNNING DRILLS AND GAMES 5 5. GRIP / CATCH / PASS - WHAT 6 6. DRAW THE MAN - TWO-V-ONE 8 7. FRONT ON TACKLE - WHAT 10 9. PRINCIPLES OF ATTACK 13 10. EFFORT AREAS 15 11. AGE SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES 16 12. POSITION SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES 18 13. NATIONAL CODE OF CONDUCT 20 14. NATIONAL PLAY SAFE CODE 21 15. COACHING ACCREDITATION 21 16. MINI, MOD & INTERNATIONAL RULES 22 17. GAME DEVELOPMENT STAFF 22
1 1. ABOUT THE MANUAL
The Brisbane Broncos Coach Education Manual will provide coaches with a valuable resource aimed at meeting the needs and requirements of coaches at all levels. Whilst the needs of a performance athlete and the recreational player will be vastly different, the fundamental principles of coaching remain the same. This resource has been developed over a number of years, with some of the games finest educators having influence over the teachings enclosed.
‘THE PRIMARY ROLES OF THE COACH ARE TO TEACH AND MANAGE PEOPLE’
A coach’s ability to achieve in both these areas effectively relies solely on their quest for knowledge, ability to communicate and their willingness to learn. As the old saying goes, ‘it is impossible for a man to learn, what he thinks he already knows’. Learning provides knowledge and knowledge provides us with the ability to Teach and Manage.
Rugby League at any level is not a complicated game, it requires players to execute basic skills such as Grip, Catch & Pass, Draw & Pass (2v1) and Tackle Technique, regularly and many times under the influence of pressure and fatigue. It is these fundamental skills that are crucial to a player’s ability to play our game. These skills are taught in range of different ways such as drill type environments, they are then practiced in small sided games or game-based scenarios. It is here that the skill is tested in an environment that should replicate mini versions of the scenarios that a player will face on game day.
The most effective coaches are those who get the best out of their players both individually and as a team, whilst at the same time using the sport as an opportunity to develop them as people.
In order for a coach to understand the process of coaching, they must first understand the reasons why children stay in sport. Primarily, children stay in sport for these main reasons;
♦ The environment ♦ The enjoyment ♦ The development - player and person
Coaches control each of these three stages, you are effectively the most valuable assets we have in our sport and certainly have the biggest impact on whether children continue to play our game or not. Junior coaching is not about winning, period. It is about teaching your players the process of success and retaining your player’s so they remain connected to the sport.
Coaching is a role that requires both time and effort but can be very enjoyable and rewarding. I hope that this Education Manual enhances your ability to teach and assists you in your quest to become a better coach/ manager.
You play a vital role in our game and your role is certainly very much appreciated by the Brisbane Broncos.
Kind regards
Paul Dyer Brisbane Broncos Game Development Manager
2 2. ROLES OF THE COACH
THE COACH
TEACHING MANAGING PEOPLE How can you teach without Getting people to do what you knowledge? want them to do and like doing it Fundamental skills, specialised Coaching is more than just skills, position specific skills memorising techniques or devising the perfect game plan
FUNDAMENTAL REASONS CHILDREN REMAIN IN SPORT
Development Development The Enjoyment & of the of the environment mateship player person
♦ Player selection ♦ Variety at training ♦ Fundamental motor ♦ Effort ♦ Coach behaviour ♦ Communication skills (speed, agility, ♦ Attitude (never give ♦ Skill level ♦ Being with friends strength, endurance) up) ♦ Age ♦ Fun based drills & ♦ Sport related ♦ Overcome setbacks ♦ Aspiration games fundamentals ♦ Manage (catch, pass, draw & distractions pass, tackle) ♦ On time, dress, ♦ Positional skills manners (halves, outside backs, middles)
CHILDREN WILL STAY IN SPORT PRIMARILY FOR THESE FOUR MAIN REASONS.
JUNIOR COACHING IS NOT ABOUT WINNING, PERIOD.
IT’S ABOUT CREATING A POSITIVE, ENJOYABLE ENVIRONMENT AND TEACHING PLAYERS THE PROCESS REQUIRED TO BE SUCCESSFUL.
3 3. HOW TO TEACH - ‘KEY SKILLS’
The primary role of the coach is to teach.
Teaching is a process that requires knowledge.
3.1 KNOWLEDGE “It is impossible for a man to learn what he thinks he already knows” Knowledge is a confident understanding of a skill acquired by a coach through experience and education. How can you teach without knowledge? Good teachers have a genuine desire to learn.
3.2 PLANNING In planning a session, ask yourself what are you aiming to accomplish? Drills and games should be planned with the sole focus on the outcome you are aiming to achieve. Key elements of the planning phase include history, values, staff requirements, session content, team goals, individual player requirements etc.
3.3 COMMUNICATION A huge component of teaching is communication information. This may be verbal, written or through demonstration, the key, however, is getting people to understand your information.
3.4 ENTHUSIASM Your attitude and behaviour is infectious. If you enjoy what you do and have a genuine passion for your position you will engage with the people you teach.
3.5 CONFIDENCE Confidence is gained through ‘knowledge of the topic’. It is a belief we have in our own ability to meet the challenge and succeed. In realising what we don’t know, we learn and develop confidence.
4 4. RUNNING DRILLS AND GAMES
4.1 EXPLANATION OF THE DRILL Organise your group and explain how the mechanics of the drill operates. There is no need to teach skills at this stage, as the players must first understand how the drill operates and the individual requirements the drill places on them as players.
4.2 GET ACTIVE Get the players active as quickly as possible upon explanation of the drill, it is important that you do not over communicate at this stage.
4.3 COACH THE SKILL The skill you are aiming to teach has coaching points and it is now that you must teach each of these in stages. For example: Stop the drill, demonstrate and explain the first coaching point then have them perform that before you move onto the next point.
4.4 PRACTICE Players must practice as often as possible with correct skill technique before moving onto the next coaching point. It is critical that the coach evaluates and provide feedback to the players at this stage whilst also giving them an opportunity to solve the problem themselves.
4.5 SMALL SIDED GAMES Games are a great way to provide an enjoyable working environment. They also provide the coach with the ideal platform to gauge whether a player has retained the knowledge of a skill and whether or not the player can execute this new skill under pressure. Small Sided Games are designed to place the player in an environment that replicate small sections of what they may face when they play Rugby League.
5 5. GRIP / CATCH / PASS - WHAT HOW WHY GRIP THE FOOTBALL
Carry the ball with two hands This is the best grip a player can have on the ball to allow you to do everything you need to as an attacking runner – run, pass, kick, one-handed offload etc
Thumbs on top, fingers spread underneath, pull This will enable the player to release the ball with thumbs back on the ball no rotation on it while giving them the best grip for one-handed offloads
CAT C H
Hands up, in front of the body, thumbs in tight, Allows the player to catch the ball in their hands, fingers spread not on their chest
Elbows off the chest, arms flexed, in front of the Allows the player to receive a bad pass – high or body low
Catch the ball in two hands, away from the chest This will allow the player to transfer the ball to the (Watch the ball) support runner at speed
If the player elects to run the ball then they commence by carrying the ball in two hands
FEET
Pass the ball off the outside leg (leg that is furthest This will square up a defender and force them to away from the support runner) make a decision
Keep feet and hips square down the field when This will straighten the body position, allowing the promoting the ball player to square up and attract defenders before releasing the pass
Grip Catch Pass 1 Pass 2 Feet
6 HOW WHY PASSING
Point the ball facing to the ground (thumbs and Stops the player from throwing a spiral pass and fingers to the ground) pass the ball with no rotation
Arms down in front of the body, not over extended, When passing the ball the player should use their but straight arms to promote the ball, as the fingers and wrists will add weight and direction
Start the ball from outside the hip on the opposite The ball starts from outside the players’ hip as this leg to the direction that you are passing the ball. allows them to generate power through swinging Never start the ball from the centre of the body their arms. This technique will also prevent players from flinging the ball with fingers and wrists, helping eliminate rotation of the ball
The ball travels underneath the body, not around If the ball travels underneath the body there is a the body lot less room for error. If the ball is released early it might go low, late release may go high, but the ball is still travelling towards the target so the receiver is still a chance to catch the ball. If the ball travels around the body, an early release would see the ball travel forward and a late release would see the ball travel behind the receiver (follow through dictates direction). This enables the player to promote the ball from their arms and shoulders as well as giving them a clear sight at the support runner
On release of the ball, weight should be on the Gives the support runner every opportunity to opposite foot, over the top of the ball, with toes catch the ball. A hard rotating pass is very hard facing towards the try line. Rotate from the to catch at the best of times let alone whilst under shoulders, keeping the feet and hips square down pressure the field. On release of the ball the players’ eyes should be looking to the receiver
Pass the ball softly, making sure that they Because the ball is travelling upwards towards follow through with the arms in the direction of the eyes, the support player is able to catch the the support runner and release the ball with no ball in their hands whilst still being able to see the rotation on it defenders
Weight the ball as it travels upwards towards the support runner’s eyes
7 6. DRAW THE MAN - TWO-V-ONE - WHAT HOW WHY BALL CARRY
The ball carrier must have two hands on the ball This places doubt in the defenders mind as to what the ball carrier is going to do with the ball. It also allows the ball carrier to pass, kick, dummy, run etc on demand
BODY POSITION
First movements are straight This will square up a defender and force them to make a decision
Pass off the leg that is opposite to the support This gives the best opportunity to deliver an runner eg: passing left, have the right foot forward effective pass whilst under pressure on the ground, making sure that the feet and hips are square down the field
Get the defender interested by attacking the inside This will make the defender shift to the position shoulder of the defence and pass the ball from no they want them before making the pass more than a couple of metres away (this will vary depending on the situation, early or late pass)
SPEED ON THE RUN
Ball Carrier – attack the inside shoulder of the Attacking at speed will commit the defender; slow defender at speed, isolate the defender (get them down as the defender commits, giving the best interested) then slow down to make the pass (fast opportunity of making a nice soft pass that the then slow). Slow down as the defender turns or support runner can catch commits to making the tackle
Support Runner – opposite to the ball carrier, off the Enables the support runner to hold the defender line slow then receive the pass at speed (slow then square as long as possible before changing fast). Accelerate to full speed once the ball carrier direction and accelerating into the hole at speed. has drawn the defender and takes a step with Attacking the hole at speed gives the best chance their feet to make the pass of breaking the tackle or at worst forcing the defender to make an arm tackle
8 HOW WHY RUNNING LINES (TWO-V-TWO)
Ball Carrier – attack the defender’s inside shoulder This will square up and commit the defender to the ball carrier
Support runner – start straight, hold up the defender, when the ball carrier prepares to make the pass, this is the cue to attack the hole. To engage the hole, the support runner must show a genuine change of direction and speed and do this as a late as possible
Location of the hole – draw a line in the middle of the space between the two defenders andv must aim to get to the side of the line that is closest to the ball carrier
Support runner must aim for this space
: Defender
: Attacker
BC : Ball Carrier SR BC SR : Support Runner
9 7. FRONT ON TACKLE - WHAT HOW WHY ATTITUDE
Defence is about attitude (will to make the tackle) Good defenders display a great attitude towards defence; they always believe that they can make the tackle
TARGET AREA
Make contact with the point of the shoulder This is the best area on the body to make an dependant of height of both the defender and the effective front-on tackle ball carrier
Bottom of the ball / bottom of the ball carrier’s arm / belly button. Target the body’s centre of gravity
REACTION ZONE
Taking the feet close to the attacker limits the space It’s important that the defender stays upright for for error, step in with same foot, same shoulder, as long as possible, this enables them to shift if the head to outside of the ball carrier (not in front) ball carrier moves. If the defender drops too early the ball carrier can beat them with footwork. This is the reason that getting into the zone before the drop is vital
: Attacker
: Defender
Body position remains square to the attacking runner
10 HOW WHY DROP
Must get one foot forward in the reaction zone, Feet and leg position will generate power. One foot making sure that the feet and hips are square on forward and one back (like starting a race) enables to the target the defender to drop and generate the most power. If feet and hips are not square to the target then the defender will lose power
Drop the hips to lower the shoulder below the ball Allows the defender to keep their eyes up and carriers’ shoulders, eyes up, back flat back flat
Arms and elbows in close to the chest This gives the player a sense of where the contract area is, at shoulder width
DRIVE
Head lead (head in tight to the ball carrier’s target Head lead is crucial in establishing the best zone), eyes up possible contact. Their shoulders are connected to their head so the only way to make an effective tackle with their shoulders is if their head is in tight
Hit with the shoulder, drive up and accelerate If the defender drives up and makes solid contact, through contact area, good strong contact the ball carrier will be knocked off balance and be dislodged from their feet. It is important the drive is up and not through the ball carrier – if they drive through the ball carrier they may keep their footing and be able to offload the ball
Fast feet into the contact area, leg drive, keep on Stops the defender from planting their feet and their feet helps with keeping power in the tackle and not missing the ball carrier
LOCK ON / UNDER HOOKS
Use the arms to wrap on to the ball carrier; the The use of under hooks driving arms up underneath hands are used to lock on to the jersey or legs the ball carrier’s armpits is to get as tight as possible to the ball carrier after contact has been made
Force Centre of gravity
11 8. PRINCIPLES OF DEFENCE
1 2 3 4 B A A B 4 3 2 1
Left Unit Middle Unit Core Right Unit
8.1 SETTING UP THE DEFENSIVE LINE 1. Ball carrier on the ground 2. Markers 3. Tight spots 4. Set short side numbers 5. Organise long side 6. Line speed and direction
8.2 DEFENSIVE TECHNIQUE ♦ Technique - How good is your tackle technique? Learn it and practice ♦ The space between you & the person on your inside is your Domain ♦ Off line square – forward straight ahead off the line, outside foot up from Play The Ball (PTB) ♦ Dominance in the tackle – know your roles?- Make the tackle ♦ Ground work: Learn how to peel ( legs off first ) correctly controlling the speed of the ruck ♦ Looking in Front – most players only concentrate on the PTB ♦ Have them look up in-front & adjust. The PTB doesn’t move…
8.3 MARKER DEFENCE THE CORE (B to B DEFENCE) 1. Plug / Secure the middle or the Ruck 2. Tie in – Solid line = must FILL THE SPACE 3. Work rate – Double 4. Kick pressure – 5th Tackle pressure CALL ( 1st Marker & “A” pressure the kicker )
8.4 FIRST MARKER ♦ To predict the direction of the ball (verbal & pointing) ♦ First movement lateral, don’t move until the ball has left ♦ If the ball goes the other way tie-in & talk to the other marker
8.5 SECOND MARKER ♦ Take a small step to cover other side of ruck ♦ Then moves to tie-in/plug the inside of the first marker ♦ Talk to first Markers back and FILL THE SPACE
12 8.6 MARKER DEFENCE ♦ Communicate from ground up – BE VERBAL ♦ When MARKERS are set ( second M push the rump of first M) ♦ Keep your distance – do not engage physically or verbally ♦ Do not go past the ball – keep it on your outside ♦ FILL THE SPACE connect with A defender ♦ A defender starting point is no wider than 3 metres
8.7 THE CORE (B TO B DEFENCE) ♦ Straight line always - Grenade everyone up together ♦ When defending on your line, must get off quickly = GRENADE ♦ When on back foot up & hold – change to paddle. Quick play the ball or man down we call NEG D on the short side if we are short a number
8.8 DEFENSIVE START POSITIONS 30 30 20 8m 7m 5m 4m 3m 3m 4m 5m 5m 6m 8m 10m 20 10 10
9m 7m 6m 5m 4m 3m 3m 4m 5m 6m 7m 9m 9. PRINCIPLES OF ATTACK KEEP IT SIMPLE
9.1 CORE SKILL Attacking in Rugby League at any level requires it’s players to be competent in the Fundamental Core Skills such as GRIP, CATCH & PASS and DRAW & PASS (two-v-one) (two-v-two). It is these skills that will give your players the ability to execute more advanced structures under pressure and Attacking Principles cannot be introduced until your players have a solid grounding in these fundamentals.
9.2 POSSESSION Two key transition opportunities occur in the game, these include; Defence to Attack and Attack to Defence. Transitioning from Defence to Attack can happen under any of the following situations; penalties, 20 mt restart, dropped ball, kick returns etc. It is important that when these occur we transition at speed into our next task.
Winning The Ball - (Defence & Pressure)
Defence - Line Speed, Contact, Controlling the Ruck, 5th Tackle Pressure. Pressure - Disciplined execution (quality not quantity), keep applying pressure through Support Play, Repeat Sets,
13 Turnovers. You don’t have to score on every play.
Keeping The Ball - You can’t compete without the ball. An ability to execute basic skills and understand the rules.
Using The Ball - Understanding the importance of Possession, Shape and Structure.
9.3 FIELD POSITION Key sections of the field that the attacking teams can execute its plays from:
Example: Left – Always Our Left (O/L) 5m corridor about 5m to the left of the upright post
Right – Always Our Right (O/R) Similar corridor on our RIGHT (O/R)
Middle – Middle of the Field The area between the goal posts
9.4 MOMENTUM Push support, play the ball speed, effective carries.
9.5 APPLY PRESSURE Shape and Structure are critical for a team’s ability to attack, so teaching your players to understanding these key components, will ultimately improve your team’s effectiveness to attack and your individual player’s ability to execute attacking sets under pressure.
Coaches should use their own initiative and feel a freedom to coach what they feel works with Shape and Structure but effectively Shape/Structure is teaching your players where to stand in anticipation of the next movement or play after each Play the Ball (PTB) and also what lines to run when attacking down the field. (Ruck Plays, Attacking sets at the try line, second phase play, etc.)
9.6 EYES UP Players - Playing with width and pushing up on the ball in support, in order to spread defence.
Off the Ball - Good off the ball width and running, makes it very difficult for defence to commit numbers to each tackle.
9.7 CAPITALISE Finishing your sets positively, to mount pressure or score points.
♦ Good Ball - attacking the line
When to run or kick? So that the result is try, repeat set or turnover close to the tryline.
♦ Danger Ball - coming off your try line
Tackled - Don’t get tackled on the last play and give away possession in this area of the field.
Kick Placement and Length - some examples include, positioning of the kick as to move the back 3 of the opposition, ball in play to mount pressure, kicking at the advantage line to get maximum distance.
14 10. EFFORT AREAS
These areas of the game have nothing to do with the skill or ability level of players. They are choices based on effort and attitude.
10.1 ATTACK Play the Ball ♦ Effort to play the ball quickly ♦ Creates time and space on next play ♦ Creates momentum for the team
Support ♦ Genuine support that pushes through the defensive line ♦ Holds defenders off the ball carrier ♦ Assists with play the ball speed 10.2 DEFENCE Fill the Space ♦ Defender fills the space once ball goes past ♦ Maintain spacing with outside defender ♦ “Always expect the ball to come back” mentality
Kick Chase +2 ♦ Present one straight, fast moving defensive line once ball has been kicked ♦ Build pressure on first two tackles with aggressive marker movements and line speed
Kick Pressure ♦ Pressure comes from 1st marker and A defender on the kicking side of the ruck ♦ Pressure directed at inside shoulder of kicker to prevent stepping back on inside ♦ Kick pressure affects kickers time to kick, and therefore effectiveness of kick
15 11. AGE SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
11.1 UNDER 7S AND 8S MINI LEAGUE Minor Objectives ♦ For the players to have a basic understanding of the rules. ♦ Complete a basic introduction to catching, passing and carrying technique ♦ Having a correct play-the-ball technique ♦ Introduction to correct tackling technique. ♦ Direction of the defensive line Major Objectives ♦ Progress from basic pass/carry technique to catch/pass and running onto ball ♦ Understanding the roles of dummy half and first receiver ♦ Progression of tackling technique, front on/side on Emphasis in under 7s and 8s should be on having fun and enjoyment whilst at the same time learning about the game and improving their skills. Winning games of football does not matter.
11.2 UNDER 9S AND 10S MID LEAGUE Minor Objectives ♦ All players should have a thorough knowledge of mid league rules ♦ Players should show progression of basic skills outlined in mini league ♦ Basic understanding of player positions ♦ Introduction to basic kicking technique ♦ Basic introduction of defensive roles e.g. markers ♦ Scrummage Technique (if applicable) Major Objectives ♦ Introduction to Go forward ♦ Introduction to support players ♦ Progression of kicking technique ♦ Progression of defensive roles ♦ Basic introduction of Draw and Pass, 2 v 1 Emphasis is still on fun and enjoyment whilst advancing their skills of the game. Players however need to be ready to progress to Mod league. Winning games is of no importance
11.3 UNDER 11S AND 12S MOD LEAGUE Minor Objectives ♦ Players should have a thorough understanding of Mod rules ♦ A continued progression of catch/pass/carry ♦ Progression of Draw and Pass, 2 v 1 ♦ Progression of Go forward and support ♦ Continued progression of defensive roles ♦ Introduction to kick and chase ♦ Progression of Scrummage technique Major Objectives ♦ Introduction of skill games showing importance of fitness ♦ Progression of Draw and Pass, 2 v1, 3 v 2 ♦ Introduction on line running ♦ Progression of tackle technique ♦ Introduction of backline formation Emphasis on enjoyment and being fully prepared for International rules.
16 11.4 UNDER 13S AND 14S INTERNATIONAL RULES Minor Objectives ♦ Introduction to Ruck plays ♦ Progression of backline formation ♦ Continued progression of Draw and Pass 3 v2, 3 v 3 ♦ Continued progression of line running and support play ♦ Introduction of footwork and evasion ♦ Introduce defensive teams left/right/ruck ♦ Introduce double marker defence ♦ Continued Scrummage technique Major Objectives ♦ Introduce importance of slowing PTB down when in defence ♦ Introduce importance of quick PTB when in attack ♦ Introduction to body weight exercises, technique only ♦ Progression on importance of fitness ♦ Introduction of nutrition and its importance in exercise Emphasis on fun and enjoyment while fine tuning the basic of skills. Sportsmanship also needs to be shown at all times.
11.5 UNDER 15S AND 16S Minor Objectives ♦ Continued progression on importance of fitness ♦ Progression of nutrition ♦ Progression of formation and ruck plays ♦ Introduction to short side plays ♦ Progression of play-the-ball speed when in attack ♦ Progression of slowing the play-the-ball when in defence ♦ Fine tune catch/pass, draw/pass ♦ Fine tune defensive roles - teams, kick chase, trail, slide etc. ♦ Introduction to weight training – Technique only ♦ Introduction on importance of extra training ♦ Introduction of game plans Major Objectives ♦ Introduction Leadership roles ♦ Introduction of Goal setting ♦ Introduction to life values and importance of teamwork Emphasis on sportsmanship and fine tuning the major skill areas
11.6 UNDER 18S Minor Objectives ♦ Progression of extra training ♦ Progression of game plans ♦ Continued progression of nutrition ♦ Continued progression of winning the ruck area, PTB speed ♦ Continued progression on running to space not players, angles Major Objectives ♦ Continued emphasis of life and team values and being a better person Emphasis on preparing the players for Senior footy and keeping them motivated
17 12. POSITION SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
12.1 FULLBACK Attack: Highly skilled and agile, with a safe set of hands, an ability to attack in broken play and a good kick return. Extremely high work rate so that after choosing where and when to come into the back line and/or run or pass for attacking raids, the player can regroup and attack on more than one occasion in the set. This involves a lot of unrewarded efforts covering lots of kms. Good space awareness is required with the ability to produce a quick PTB. Very strong communication skills.
Defence: The Fullback is the last line of defence, he must have a good foundation for defensive technique, good communication skills and be an additional set of eyes, to organise the defensive line of his team. It is important for the Fullback to follow the ball across the field, staying just inside the footy as to switch directions if needed. Tackle timing and tackle selection very important. As is kicker awareness, who – when – where.
12.2 WING Attack: Speed, size, strength and agility are all ideal assets of great Wingers. The Winger must have an understanding with his Centre, be aware of the sideline and have the commitment and ability to score tries. Wingers must have a willingness to look for extra work (relief rucks coming out of trouble) and pull off the ball to utilize the full width of the field. Wingers must have the ability to jump and catch under pressure in both attack and defence, as to either score tries or diffuse cross-field kicks. Strong kick return with the ability to not get dominated, win plays 1 and 2 to get sets off to a good start.
Defence: Wingers have faith in their inside man, knowing when to slide, wedge or stay on their opposing Winger. Positional play for kicks is important, especially late in the tackle count. It is also important that your wingers are good communicators and have a reasonable understanding of the Centre inside them and the way in which that player defends. Strong 1 on 1 tackle technique, hit and stick.
12.3 CENTRE Attack: Similar to a Wingers, speed, size, strength and agility are ideal attributes. A Centre ideally has good catch pass and draw pass skills, knowing when to promote the ball to his support and when to run. Centres will need to be sound at running lines, putting themselves in the right hole at the right time for their ball player. Evasion/Tempo
Defence: Ability to read attacking situations (numbers) eg: slide, wedge or retreat and wait for numbers. Centres are effective 1 on 1 defenders and have good communication skills. Dictate compression, read offense from outside in.
12.4 HALF / FIVE-EIGHTH Attack: Highly skilled players who have the ability to play within a structure as well as knowing when to look up and play what is in front of them. These players have excellent catch pass, draw pass and decision making skills under pressure. Halves are confident players with good communication skills and the ability to execute the correct plays at the right times. Highly competent kicking skills are also an important asset for good Halves.
Defence: Ideally, these players are strong 1 on 1 defenders, good communicators and have the ability to read numbers and lock the football up when defending the line.
18 12.5 LOCK Attack: A versatile position, that can be used as a hit up forward, running forward or a five-eighth type role. These players should be reasonably agile, have good catch pass and draw pass skills and be strong communicators. Ideally your Lock would have a high work rate, follow the ball, back up the ball carrier and have the ability to offload or pass at the line if required.
Defence: Solid 1 on 1 defender, that has a willingness to do a little bit extra in defence. Effective technical defender with good communication skills and the ability to make the correct decisions at the right time.
12.6 SECOND ROW (EDGE FORWARD) Attack: Tough player, with a strong running game and the ability to offload and run a line for a ball player. These players generally have a great work ethic. Leg speed/drive.
Defence: A workaholic in defence, with the ability to count numbers, make the 1 on 1’s and lock up the football when required. Tackle selection, high / low / ball and all.
12.7 HOOKER Attack: The general of the forward pack, highly skilled in the technical elements of catch pass and draw pass, with a good kicking game and the ability to provide good quick service from dummy half. These players have an extremely high work rate, display good vision and know when to pass or run as to not put pressure on the ball receivers with poor decision making.
Defence: Extremely effective defenders, who normally make up what they lack in size, with courage. These players are technically very good defenders, with a high work rate and a desire to make contact no matter what the size of the opposition. They will generally need a very high level of fitness and lead the kick chase.
12.8 FRONT ROW Attack: Size, strength and aggression are all key components of a good Front Rower. A willingness to compete, these players have a strong work ethic, and are both physically and mentally tough. They will require a relatively high fitness base to carry out a heavy and intense work load. Modern Front Rowers possess the ability to offload and pass before the line, however not all front rowers may be required to carry out this role in your team. Find their front with quality PTB, support and reload in yardage.
Defence: Aggressive, intimidating players with sound technical ability and confidence to make 1 on 1 tackles. The front rower will set the benchmark for your teams line speed, energy and ability to slow the play and ball down. Also tackle selection in group tackles.
19 13. NATIONAL CODE OF CONDUCT
The Rugby League Code of Conduct provides all participants – players, parents, coaches, referees, spectators and officials – with some simple rules that assist in delivering a safe and positive environment for everyone involved in the game.
Within that safe environment, every Rugby League participant has the best chance to enjoy the game. By accepting the standards of behaviour in the Code, we provide opportunities for young boys and girls to grow on the field – we build good players, good citizens and good communities in which Rugby League is a social asset.
I strongly recommend that everyone connected with Rugby League adopts these rules as an essential part of the way they contribute to our great game.
13.1 CODE OF CONDUCT – PLAYER ♦ Be a good sport. Respect all good play whether from your team or the opposition and shake hands with and thank, the opposition players and officials after the game – win, lose or draw ♦ Participate for your own enjoyment and benefit ♦ Always respect the referee’s decision ♦ Never become involved in acts of foul play ♦ Honour both the spirit and letter of the competition rules and live up to the highest ideals of ethics and sportsmanship; avoid gamesmanship, and respect the traditions of the game ♦ Never engage in disrespectful conduct of any sort including profanity, sledging, obscene gestures, offensive remarks, trash-talking, taunting or other actions that are demeaning to other players, officials or supporters ♦ Care for and respect the facilities and equipment made available to you during training and competition ♦ Safeguard our health; don’t use any illegal or unhealthy substances ♦ Recognise that many officials, coaches and referees are volunteers who give up their time to provide their services. Treat them with the utmost respect ♦ Do not bet or otherwise financially speculate, directly or indirectly, on the outcome or any other aspect of a Rugby League match or competition in which you are involved
13.2 CODE OF CONDUCT – COACH ♦ Actively discourage foul play and/or unsportsmanlike behaviour by players ♦ Seek to maximise the participation and enjoyment of all players regardless of ability; avoid the tendency to over-use a talented player; treat all players as equals, regardless of their talent ♦ Show concern and caution towards all sick and injured players. Follow the advice of a physician and/or sports trainer to the letter when determining when an injured player is ready to commence training or playing ♦ Teach players that an honest effort and competing to the best of their ability is as important as victory ♦ Maintain appropriate, professional relationships with players at all times ♦ Maintain a thorough knowledge of the Laws of the Game and keep abreast of current coaching methods; maintain or improve your current accreditation level ♦ Always consider the health, safety and welfare of the players at all times ♦ Teach young players to realise that there is a big gap between their play and the professional game; do not coach them as if they are professionals ♦ Ensure that your coaching reflects the level of the competition being played; do not be a ‘win-at-all-cost’ coach ♦ As coach, conduct yourself at all times in a manner, and in all situations that shows leadership, respect for the game of Rugby League and respect for all those that are involved in the game – the players, officials, the fans, the parents, the referees and the media
20 14. NATIONAL PLAY SAFE CODE
The Safeplay Code was developed to emphasise safety and good conduct within the game of Rugby League by creating the best possible on-field environment and actively controlling undesirable actions. It applies to all players up to and including the Under 15 years age group.
Visit playrugbyleague.com/safeplay 15. COACHING ACCREDITATION
Remember that junior players participate for pleasure and mateship. Your coaching should create a positive environment that is fun, safe, and inclusive.
What is the Rugby League National Coaching Accreditation Scheme? The National Coaching Accreditation Scheme is endorsed by the Australian Sports Commission and aims to ensure that all Rugby League coaches receive both essential and beneficial educational opportunities.
Why do I need an accreditation to coach a Rugby League team? Coaching Accreditation is compulsory for all Rugby League coaches in Australia, regardless of what age or level you are coaching at. It is essential that new coaches gain a basic understanding of how to coach, different stages of learning and development, safety considerations, as well as the core skills, tactics and laws of the game prior to taking on the role of a coach.
Who needs a Coaching Accreditation? Regardless of what age or level you intend on coaching, you will be required to gain a Coaching Accreditation as per National Rugby League (NRL) policy.
The following coach education courses must be completed under NRL policy: ♦ Modified Games Coaching Course (6-12 Years) ♦ International Games Coaching Course (13+ Years) ♦ Senior Club Coaching Course (18+ Years)
NB. If you are coaching a senior team (18+) and are the head coach, coaching coordinator or top level (senior) coach with 2 or more senior grades, we would advise you to complete the Senior Club Coaching Course.
How long does my accreditation last for? Your Accreditation has an expiry date – of four years from its date of issue. At that time, you must update your accreditation in order to continue coaching. Of course, if you should upgrade your accreditation to a higher level at any time during those four years, then the expiry date re-commences from the date of issue of the updated accreditation.
The expiry date is clearly shown on the accreditation certificate issued to all coaches upon accreditation.
For further information on coach accreditation requirements please visit playrugbyleague.com.
21 16. MINI, MOD & INTERNATIONAL RULES
After more than 5 years of research, the rules governing the game in the Mini & Mod age groups (5-12yo) were adjusted for the start of the 2015 season. The introduction of these rule changes has had a positive impact on the Rugby League experience for kids competing in these age groups and are designed to create a more inclusive and enjoyable environment. The rules governing the game in the Mini & Mod age groups can be accessed through the following link:
Mini & Mod Rules - 6-12’s and International Rules - 13’s + Visit playrugbyleague.com to find out more about your specific age division 17. GAME DEVELOPMENT STAFF
Paul Dyer David Stagg Game Development Manager Game Development - Brisbane North [email protected] [email protected]
Michael Hancock Wayne Weekes Game Development - Brisbane South Game Development - Brisbane West [email protected] [email protected]
Michael De Vere Jack Reed
Game Development - Brisbane East Game Development - Sunshine Coast [email protected] [email protected]
Darren Burns Casey McGuire Game Development - Gympie/Dalby Game Development - Central Queensland [email protected] [email protected] AS A COACH ASK YOURSELF, “ ARE YOU TRYING TO “IMPRESS THEM OR ARE YOU TRYING TO IMPROVE THEM?
22 GAME DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS