Passing drill for young players

The rules

This game must be played by teams of four or five rugby players as you need at least one spare grid in each half of the area.

Players look to throw the ball above head height into the spare grid in the opponent’s half. It must hit the ground to score a point.

The opposition must prevent this by catching the ball. They can then try to throw it into their opponent’s spare grid.

Players must call to avoid having two players going for the same ball. If two players go for the same ball they incur a penalty point.

Play to 10 points, switching sides halfway through. Serves alternate and points are scored on every serve no matter what.

If the ball goes out of bounds, the team that touched the ball last loses the point.

Set-up

Area: 20m long by 15m wide, in two halves. Six 5m square grids in each half.

Equipment: One ball, cones.

Players: 10 – two teams of five.

Scoring

One point each time the ball touches the ground and for each penalty.

What to call out

• “Launch the ball”
• “Call your name to catch the ball”
• “Put your name on it”

Coaching tips

Encourage players to catch the rugby ball as high as possible. This will enable them to return it quicker.

This drill is from Fun Mini Rugby Games. Covering agility, footwork, ball handling, tag and touch tackling, and teamwork, the 24 games are ideal for coaching rugby to children aged from 5 to 8 years old. Click here to order your copy today.