Coaching a circle ball play

Circle ball is a simple play to organise, which can integrate forwards and backs.

Planning and practice

Make your squad aware of the various options they can use in attack from phase play, that is from rucks and mauls. A “circle ball” play is simple to organise. In fact, your players may already be using these skills without knowing.

Passing using circle ball play

A circle ball is executed when the support player from the inside shoulder of the ball carrier runs an arc to the outside of the ball carrier. Instead of giving an inside pass which can become predictable and easy, the passer turns to his inside and pivots round passing to the receiver at pace on the outside. The ball carrier checks the defence and creates space on his outside.

Tips for circle ball drills and plays

Start in groups of three with a passer, a receiver and an inside runner who will take the circle ball. In a 5 metre square box, the passer stands on one corner facing out of the box, with the receiver, who is going pass the circle ball, on the diagonal cone. The inside runner stands on the corner behind the first passer. The receiver runs forward and takes the pass, and runs into the middle of the box. The inside runner now runs diagonally to the opposite corner to take the pass as the receiver pivots.

Make sure all players try the rugby drill from both sides, and increase the dimensions of the box.

Add extra players to the attack and have them support the player taking the circle ball, even changing the attack angle by starting wider and taking a short pass from them. Add in opposition and make the drill into a game.