Rugby Coach Weekly

Send us a textJoin Rugby Coach Weekly's Dan Cottrell as he sits down with Marlo Boyd, Bath Rugby’s Development Officer, Bath University women's forward's coach and former Bristol Bears player. Marlo opens up about her unconventional journey into rugby, the lessons she's learned about managing emotions—both hers and her players’—and how emotional intelligence can foster trust and growth in a team. Together, they explore actionable strategies for coaches to incorporate empathy, manage emotional highs and lows, and build a safe yet driven environment for players to thrive. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

In this discussion, Craig Wilson, Director of Rugby at Yale University and founder of The Contact Coach, shares insightful strategies for grassroots rugby coaches using video analysis. He emphasizes the importance of capturing even imperfect footage and making it accessible for analysis. The conversation highlights effective feedback techniques that balance positivity and critique while ensuring players are not overwhelmed. Craig also discusses innovative ways to involve players in their own performance reviews, making video analysis a powerful tool for improvement.

Send us a textIn this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly podcast, Dan Cottrell welcomes Dr. Mark Carroll, a sports coach and lecturer at the University of the West of Scotland, and a host of Labours of Sports Coaching. Together, they delve into the myths and realities of motivation in sports coaching.This conversation challenges traditional approaches and offers fresh insights. From breaking down misconceptions about the coach's role as the ultimate motivator to exploring how self-determination theory and other frameworks can shape coaching practice, Dr. Carroll discusses the delicate balance between external motivators and fostering intrinsic drive, the nuances of psychological safety, and why context is king in every coaching decision.Whether you're a grassroots coach or working with elite athletes, this episode is packed with thought-provoking ideas and practical advice to help you create environments that truly inspire performance.📩 Connect with Dr. Mark Carroll on LinkedIn or explore his podcast, Labours of Sports Coaching, for even more insights. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

In this engaging discussion, Kathryn Dane, an international rugby player with 23 caps for Ireland and a coach, dives into the nuances of tackling in women's rugby. She highlights key differences in tackling skills between genders and the unique challenges female players face, such as late entry into the sport. Kathryn also shares insights on effective tackling techniques like the 'wrap and clamp,' and emphasizes the vital role of supportive coaching environments. Her research provides essential strategies for enhancing safety and performance in women's rugby.

Adam Izzard, the Head of Rugby and Head of Boarding at Stonar School, shares his inspiring journey of building a rugby program at a school traditionally focused on equestrian sports. He discusses transforming a horse paddock into a rugby pitch and coaching a diverse group of players with varying experience. Adam emphasizes the importance of resilience, structure, and participation, highlighting rugby's role in developing life skills and teamwork. His passion is infectious, proving that even small schools can cultivate a vibrant rugby culture.

Guest Mark Williams, a visiting professor at Loughborough University and a leading expert in skill acquisition, tackles sports coaching myths. He challenges the simplicity sought by coaches, emphasizing the art of coaching over scientific dogma. They discuss the constraints-led approach and the importance of adjusting practice environments for young footballers. Mark also sheds light on the misconceptions of skill transfer and explores how visual skills enhance player performance, urging coaches to create engaging, long-term learning experiences.

In this insightful discussion, Dave Collins, a renowned performance consultant and psychology expert, shares his dynamic coaching philosophy. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability in coaching, explaining how context shapes strategies. Dave delves into the balance of questioning and active practice, encouraging curiosity among players. He also highlights the role of reflection and experimentation in coaching growth. With anecdotes and practical tips, this conversation is a treasure trove for anyone looking to enhance their coaching techniques.

Send us a textJoin host Dan Cottrell as he sits down with Danny Powell, a skill acquisition developer and performance psychologist from Manchester Metropolitan University. Danny shares his expertise working with coaches, including GB Aquatics and Sale Sharks, to explore the art and science behind skill acquisition.In this episode, they dive deep into:What "skill acquisition" really means and why it matters for coaches.Practical approaches to helping athletes learn and refine motor skills.The balance between conscious and automatic learning processes.How coaches can evolve their own techniques through reflection and open-mindedness.Whether you're coaching at the grassroots level or working with elite athletes, this episode offers valuable insights into how coaches and athletes can grow together through experimentation, understanding, and a focus on the journey, not just the destination. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Graham Bourton, head coach of Milton Keynes Under 15s rugby team, shares his inspiring journey of growing the team from just five players to 25. He discusses innovative coaching methods that prioritize fun and skill development, even overcoming challenges like COVID-19 to keep players motivated. Graham emphasizes the importance of fostering a supportive community with parents and creating a playful training environment to balance enjoyment and discipline. His insights on team dynamics and personalization have redefined youth rugby engagement.

Alex Hadley, Director of Rugby at Battersea Ironsides, shares his expertise on sustaining a thriving community rugby club in London. He emphasizes the importance of a welcoming culture and engaging training sessions to retain players. The discussion covers the balance between player commitment and selection, alongside innovative strategies to maintain team dynamics. Alex also highlights the significance of adaptable coaching language and continuous self-improvement for coaches, providing practical insights for fostering a connected rugby community.