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LOGINRugby offers countless moments of learning, and my son’s first game of 2025 provided a prime example. Watching him apply a simple yet effective adjustment to his passing reminded me how players develop best—through ownership, problem-solving, and refining their technique over time.
Players will detect their own solutions
Catching up with my youngest son’s first game of 2025 was a moment to reflect on both the evolving nature of rugby and the importance of fostering player engagement.
His team played away against Lydney’s second team, and I was impressed by their decision to field genuine second-team players, even though their first team was without a game.
This choice speaks volumes about prioritising player retention.
Dropping regular second-team players to make room for first-team reinforcements could lead them to question their commitment. Instead, this inclusive approach helps keep players invested in the game.
Watching my son’s team develop under a new coach has fascinated me.
Their evolving game plan focuses on playing wider and earlier, but this shift has taken months to bed in. It’s a great reminder that good strategies don’t materialise overnight; they require time, patience, and trust in the process.
I was particularly struck by my son’s passing during this match – it was some of the best I’ve seen from him. Afterwards, he reflected on why this improvement had occurred.
He realised that, previously, many of his passes landed on the receiver’s shoulder. His solution? Focusing on engaging his core and driving his hands towards the new target, which is much further in front of the receiver.
"I need to keep square, so not turn my hips, but create power through turning my core” were his exact words.
It’s evident he’s been practising, and his efforts are paying off.
This highlights a crucial coaching principle: when players have clear objectives, they often find solutions themselves.
My son’s thoughtful self-assessment and adjustment reflect his growth as a student of the game.
As coaches, we must decide when to guide and when to step back, allowing players the space to discover and refine their skills.
Sometimes, the best coaching is knowing when to let players work it out on their own.
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QUOTE
"Who could you ask better for a young Irish No 10 than to have Johnny Sexton around, watching training with you and giving you live feedback in training."
Andrew Goodman, Ireland assistant coach, on Johnny Sexton’s new coaching role and its impact
Dan Cottrell
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