From First XV to U14s: Coaching Rugby Across the Age Groups
Mar 21, 2025
auto_awesome
Charlie Harrison, a former professional player turned coach with extensive experience at various levels, shares valuable insights on coaching rugby from First XV to U14s. He discusses the shift in focus to skill development and enjoyment in younger players, emphasizing game-based learning. The importance of fostering creativity and effective communication in training sessions is highlighted, along with managing player progression for long-term growth. Harrison also delves into techniques for teaching essential skills like the spin pass, all while maintaining a fun and inclusive environment for young athletes.
Transitioning from coaching First XV to U14s necessitates a focus on fundamental skill development and player understanding over complex strategies.
Game-based learning through small-sided games enhances young players' decision-making skills in realistic scenarios, fostering adaptability on the field.
Balancing immediate results with a long-term development mindset ensures players grow consistently, celebrating their individual progress rather than just game outcomes.
Deep dives
Upcoming Free Coaching Development Evenings
Two free coaching development evenings are scheduled, providing an informal environment for coaches to enhance their skills. The events will take place on March 11th at Old Wimbledonian Warriors and on March 18th at London Irish Amateurs. Attendees can expect to learn hands-on drills, effective attack and defense tactics, and game-based coaching strategies that can be directly applied. These gatherings aim to foster interaction among coaches, allowing for questions and idea sharing, which can lead to more effective coaching practices.
Transitioning from First 15 to Under-14 Coaching
Coaching an under-14 team presents unique challenges, especially for those transitioning from coaching older, more experienced teams like the First 15. Coaches often have to adapt their approaches because they encounter new players with varying skill levels and less familiarity with the game's nuances. It is essential to focus on building fundamental skills and understanding rather than advanced strategies, as younger players need to grasp basic principles before moving to more complex tactics. This shift requires coaches to develop specific drills and practices that accommodate the varying abilities and personalities of new players.
Importance of Skill Development Over Strategy
A focus on skills is critical at the under-14 level, as young players benefit more from mastering fundamentals than from intricate strategies. Coaches should prioritize teaching basic skills such as passing and positioning, ensuring players can execute them effectively in real-game scenarios. Developing an understanding of gameplay dynamics helps players make informed decisions on the field, emphasizing adaptability over predetermined plays. This approach leads to a more engaging experience for players, fostering a love for the game by allowing them to see the immediate impact of their skills.
Managing Expectations for Young Players
Coaches must balance the desire for immediate results with the need for long-term player development, especially in low-stakes environments like under-14 rugby. Emphasizing the difference between being happy with a win and being satisfied with long-term progress is crucial. Instilling a growth mindset, where small consistent improvements are celebrated, helps players understand that success is not solely defined by the score. This perspective encourages a focus on individual skill enhancement and overall team growth rather than temporary victories.
The Role of Safety and Enjoyment in Rugby
Ensuring player safety is paramount, and schools are increasingly taking steps to create a secure and enjoyable rugby environment. By fostering a culture that prioritizes safety alongside the fun of playing, schools can help alleviate parental concerns about injuries. Coaches should communicate their commitment to player safety through continued professional development and a focus on enjoyment in practices and games. This dual approach encourages students to participate in rugby while staying engaged and motivated, which is essential for the sport's future.
In this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly Podcast, Dan Cottrell sits down with Charlie Harrison, former professional player for Bath, Bedford, Rotherham and player/coach at Doncaster, ex-Head of Rugby at Marlborough College, and now coach of the U14s at Marlborough.
They discuss the transition from coaching First XV to working with younger players, the importance of game-based learning, and how to develop players beyond just their physical attributes.
Charlie shares insights into structuring training sessions, managing player progression, and fostering a long-term love for the game.
Key Takeaways:
Transitioning from First XV to U14s: Coaching younger players requires a shift from strategy-heavy sessions to focusing on skill development and game understanding.
Game-Based Learning: Small-sided games and scenario-driven training help players develop decision-making skills in realistic situations.
Balancing Structure and Creativity: Encouraging players to recognise space and opportunities rather than following rigid patterns leads to more effective, instinctive play.
Managing Player Progression: Developing a long-term mindset ensures players grow beyond their physical attributes, helping both early and late bloomers succeed.
The Role of Set-Piece Training: While vital at higher levels, younger age groups benefit more from prioritising open play, with set-piece elements introduced gradually.
Keeping Rugby Sustainable in Schools: Making rugby fun, safe, and inclusive—alongside strong communication with parents—helps maintain engagement and participation.
To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly
Also, tap into the library of 4,000 pages of activities, advice, tactics and tips to help you become the best rugby coach you can be!
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
