Ben John, a former professional rugby player and the brain behind The Rugby Trainer, dives into his journey from player to renowned online coach. He discusses the significance of consistent, short training sessions to enhance skills. Ben emphasizes creativity in drills to engage young players and shares insights on decision-making gleaned from top professionals like Marcus Smith. Additionally, he reflects on social media's power in coaching, showcasing how platforms like TikTok can effectively refine players' techniques.
41:47
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Consistent Practice
Practice skills regularly, even just 10 minutes per week, for long-term improvement.
Prioritize consistent effort over long periods to see lasting results.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Early Skill Development
Ben John's father instilled a love for skill development by engaging him and his siblings in various sports.
This early exposure fostered a habit of regular practice and enjoyment in skill-based activities.
question_answer ANECDOTE
A Bit of Magic
Ben John's first coach, Gareth Banfield, encouraged creative play by telling players to "do a bit of magic".
This fostered a mindset of trying new things and taking risks to break down defenses.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
In this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly Podcast, Dan Cottrell sits down with Ben John, better known as The Rugby Trainer, to explore his unique coaching philosophy and the rise of his hugely popular online brand. Ben shares how he transitioned from professional rugby to skill-specific coaching, the impact of his viral content, and the importance of developing core rugby skills through creative and engaging methods.
From insights on improving individual technique to the role of social media in coaching, Ben discusses how he engages young players and what makes skill acquisition sustainable over time. He also shares lessons from working with top professionals like Marcus Smith and delves into the importance of decision-making, body awareness, and confidence in player development.
Key Takeaways:
Skill development takes consistency: Just 10 minutes of focused training per week can make a big difference over time.
Decision-making is key: The best players recognize cues and adapt their skills in real-time.
Creativity in training matters: Fun, engaging drills help players improve without realizing they're working.
Master the fundamentals: Catching, passing, footwork, and tackle technique should be practiced regularly.
Social media as a coaching tool: Ben explains how platforms like TikTok and YouTube help young players refine their skills.
Learn from the best: Insights from top pros like Marcus Smith and specialist coaches offer valuable lessons for all players.
To find out more about Ben John's work go to the following links:
Rugby Coach Weekly