Rugby Coach Weekly

From First XV to U14s: Coaching Rugby Across the Age Groups

Mar 21, 2025

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.

53:52

Episode guests

Charlie Harrison

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Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

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.

Intro

2min

Coaching Transition: From Senior to Under-14 Rugby

8min

Strategic Play and Understanding Defensive Weaknesses

2min

Evolving Coaching Strategies in Rugby

11min

Mastering the Spin Pass in Youth Rugby

17min

Navigating Youth Rugby Scholarships and Coaching

13min

The Importance of Development Over Results in Rugby Coaching

3min

Send us a text

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.

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Rugby Coach Weekly

From First XV to U14s: Coaching Rugby Across the Age Groups

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Upcoming Free Coaching Development Evenings

Transitioning from First 15 to Under-14 Coaching

Importance of Skill Development Over Strategy

Managing Expectations for Young Players

The Role of Safety and Enjoyment in Rugby

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts