Rugby coaching tips for kicking skills
With few exceptions, there's no point kicking simply to give possession away. If you are going to kick, be it a long punt or chip and chase, you have to execute the skill well.
Your players must understand rugby kicking tactics and their roles within the game plan. The chances are they also need to improve on their kicking skills and technique.
Spiral punt
The spiral punt is used for distance, to fly the ball quickly and accurately through the air. The key rugby coaching points when teaching the skill are how the player holds the ball and how the player's foot strikes the ball.
For a right-footed kicker, the ball is held at an angle of approximately 45 degrees, with the left hand on top of the bottom half of the ball and the right hand below the top half of the ball as shown in the diagram.
The ball is held out at this angle and released as the foot comes up to strike the ball. The ball is kicked with the top part of the foot.
End-over-end kick
In many ways this is a more simple kick, providing more accuracy and consistency. The ball is held upright. It is kicked with the top of the foot striking the ball on its sweet spot just above its bottom point. A follow through is essential in every kick.
Key rugby coaching points
Players should:
- Hold the ball at the centre of the body.
- Drop the ball onto the boot.
- Watch the ball onto the boot.
- Kick through the ball.
Click here to get more kicking tips with a rugby drill to practise kick and chase moves.
Click the link to subscribe to Rugby Coach Weekly and get more training tips and drills delivered direct to your inbox.
Rugby coaching tips
Improve your rugby training skills. Sign up for a FREE weekly email, full of simple proven tips, advice and drills.
"Just wanted to let you know that I find your emails interesting and very helpful! Thanks very much!"
Jules Hydleman, Coach, England
|