Podcast from our YouTube channel for Coaches: https://www.youtube.com/@therugbyinstitute The Rugby Coaching Podcast is your ultimate resource for all things rugby coaching. Whether you're an experienced coach, a player aspiring to mentor, or someone passionate about the game's strategy and development, this podcast delivers expert insights, practical tips, and inspiring stories. Each episode features seasoned coaches, players, and rugby professionals who dive deep into tactics, training techniques, player development, and team management. From grassroots to elite levels, we tackle the challenges and celebrate the triumphs of coaching the world's most dynamic sport.
What separates great rugby players from the rest?According to Dylan Parsons, it’s not just skill execution — it’s what they see, when they see it, and where they place their attention.In this conversation, Dylan breaks down his "Head on a 45°" concept, explaining how elite players use their vision and peripheral awareness to make better decisions under pressure. We explore how top teams create space, identify defensive weaknesses, and consistently make the right front-door and back-door decisions in attack.We also dive into:• The Head on a 45° principle• Scanning and decision-making in attack• Training peripheral vision as a skill• Why players miss obvious opportunities• Vision, breathing, and performance under pressure• Creating better decision-makers in rugby• Practical coaching drills you can use immediately• Connecting players through shared pictures and languageWhether you're a player, coach, or rugby enthusiast, this episode offers practical insights into developing game awareness and improving on-field decision-making.Subscribe for more conversations with leading coaches, players, and performance experts from around the world.#Rugby #RugbyCoaching #SkillAcquisition #DecisionMaking #Scanning #GameAwareness #RugbySkills #PlayerDevelopment #CoachDevelopment #RugbyUnion #HighPerformance #VisionTraining #TheRugbyInstitute===========================Connect with us! Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================Our mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
In this video I sit down with Craig Stewart — a New Zealand rugby coach currently working as a skills coach with the Kobe Steelers in Japan's Top League.Craig shares a wealth of knowledge that applies at every level of the game, from professional rugby right down to your local club side.We cover:What makes a great coachBuilding a training environment players want to come back toThe offload — what's really happening pre and post contactScanning and decision makingWhy Craig believes we need to stop obsessing over perfect techniqueWhat's being undercoached at every level of the gameCoaching tips for school and club coachesWhether you're a school coach, club coach or just love the game — there's something in here for you.🎬 WATCH NEXT — Jackling Technique Breakdownhttps://youtu.be/aVp671N_Ptg===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
In this episode, former New Zealand Sevens and Wellington Defence Coach Tom Martin breaks down his complete system for coaching defence and tackling in rugby.Tom covers his chop-smash tackle system, the bullseye tackle technique, how to coach your assist tackler, and his "nominate to dominate" framework for defensive communication and line speed. He also shares how he builds defensive culture, gives honest feedback to players, and has the hard conversations every coach needs to have.Whether you're a club coach or a professional, Tom's practical approach to defence coaching, tackling systems, and player development will give you tools you can apply immediately.In this video:The chop-smash tackling system explainedHow to coach the assist tacklerThe bullseye tackle techniqueDefensive communication and line speedHow to build a defensive system for club rugbyGiving honest feedback and having hard conversationsBuilding a defensive culture in your team===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
Welcome to The Rugby Institute! 🏉If you're a coach, player, or just love rugby, this is the place to learn, improve, and connect. We break down game tactics, training drills, strength & conditioning, and mindset—all with real, practical advice from top players and coaches.This isn’t just a channel—it’s a community. Drop your thoughts in the comments, share what works for you, and help others get better. Let’s grow the game together.===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
What does it actually mean to learn a skill?In this conversation with Adam Gorman, we dive into the science of skill acquisition and what it really looks like in training and competition.We explore:How players truly learn skills (and why it’s not through repetition alone)Why “perfect technique” often breaks down in gamesThe role of challenge, mistakes, and problem-solving in learningHow to design training that transfers to performanceWhy game-based environments accelerate developmentThe importance of autonomy, motivation, and engagementIf you’re a coach or player trying to understand how to improve performance, this episode will completely change how you think about training.===========================Connect with us! =============================YouTube: ➡︎ https://www.youtube.com/@therugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstitute===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
my Turner won 7 Six Nations Grand Slams and earned 3 World Cup selections as an England international. She then went on to coach at every level of the game, from school rugby to the Premiership men's programme at Harlequins and England u20s.Her approach to developing players looks different from most. And in this episode, she explains exactly why.Amy shares how to use games to build real rugby skills, why training doesn't always have to look like rugby, and how the best coaches build trust and keep players coming back week after week.What we cover:What makes a good coachHow to use games within games to get more reps and better outcomesAmy's 4 go-to games (Fiji Touch, Grenade Touch, Top 14 Touch & Rugby Netball)Why fundamentals matter more than shape at youth levelHow to reward behaviour over talentThe role of sport psychology in becoming a better coachFree IDP Template: https://therugbyinstitute.com/idp-individual-development-plan===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
In this conversation, I sit down with former professional player and coach Ben Herring to explore what coaching is really about.We go far beyond tactics and dive into the deeper side of coaching — culture, parenting, communication, and the responsibility coaches have to grow great people, not just better players.Ben shares powerful insights from his experiences coaching around the world, including Japan, and explains why most coaches are focusing on the wrong things.This is a must-watch for any coach, parent, or player who wants to make a real impact.🔑 WHAT YOU’LL LEARNWhy coaching is about more than winningHow to build a strong team cultureThe connection between coaching and parentingHow to make your coaching “stick”Lessons from coaching in JapanHow to develop players as people🎙 ABOUT BEN HERRINGBen Herring is a former professional rugby player and experienced coach who has worked across New Zealand, Japan, and Australia. He is known for his work on team culture, leadership, and developing people through sport.👍 SUPPORT THE CHANNELIf you enjoyed this video:Like 👍Subscribe 🔔Share with a coach or teammate🧠 COMMENT BELOWWhat do you think is the real job of a coach?===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
Coach Reflection Template: https://therugbyinstitute.com/downloadsHow do you design training that actually transfers to game day?In this episode, I sit down with Andy Gibson — Waratahs Super W coach, coach developer, and sports performance lecturer — to break down what truly drives player development and performance.We dive into:• How to design training that transfers to game day• Why decision-making is key to performance• The role of game-based learning in modern coaching• How to create pressure and realism in training• Coaching communication and player ownershipAndy shares insights from his experience working within the Crusaders and Canterbury systems, as well as in high-performance environments in Australia.If you're a coach or player looking to build smarter, more adaptable rugby players and create training that actually works on game day, this is one you don’t want to miss.===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
What does it really take to go pro in rugby? 🏉In this exclusive interview, Springbok Flip van der Merwe shares the mental toughness, discipline, and sacrifices required to make it at the highest level. From daily routines and training secrets to the mindset that separates elite players from the rest, Flip gives you a rare look behind the scenes of professional rugby.Whether you’re an aspiring player, coach, or just a rugby fan, this episode reveals the hard truths about what it takes to reach the top.In this video, you’ll learn:The mental habits that elite players rely onWhy talent alone isn’t enough to go proThe sacrifices and discipline needed dailyHow Flip approaches training, recovery, and strategyDon’t miss this deep dive into the mindset of a Springbok and what separates the best from the rest.===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
What actually helps rugby players improve?In this conversation, All Black prop Ben Franks breaks down how coaches can develop players through simplicity, effort, and clear processes.Drawing on his experience as a 2x Rugby World Cup winner and now professional coach, Ben shares practical insights on:How to simplify your coaching for better resultsWhy focusing on one thing at a time accelerates developmentThe role of effort in player growth and team cultureHow to structure training for maximum transfer to performanceWhy repetition and reflection are key to long-term improvementThis is a coaching-focused conversation designed to give real, applicable ideas for coaches at all levels — from grassroots to high performance.Timestamps:0:00 Introduction1:07 Transition from player to coach8:20 Developing habits & effort13:00 Work Ethic11:55 Effort and Its Importance20:26 Mike Cron on his development28:28 Coaching Pressure36:58 Reflection is where the Week is Won41:02 Measurable Processes for Effective Coaching45:38 Developing Leaders51:00 Building Culture54:13 Advice to Parents and Coaches===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
Lineout throwing is one of the most important individual skills in rugby.In this video, Aaron Dundon breaks down lineout throwing into four key pillars that every hooker and forwards coach should understand:• Process• Hand placement• Profile• FinishingUsing real examples and practical coaching cues, Aaron explains what good lineout throwing looks like, common technical errors, and how to coach players to feel and fix their own technique — even under fatigue and pressure.This session is ideal for hookers, forwards coaches, and rugby players developing their set-piece skillset.===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
Today we’re joined by Bernie Upton — former professional rugby player and high-performance coach — as he breaks down his 4-step model for assessing and evaluating lineouts.Bernie shares insights from over a decade playing with Bay of Plenty, the Chiefs, the Hurricanes, Connacht, and Toshiba, learning from top coaches like Joe Schmidt, Vern Cotter, Warren Gatland, and Ian Foster. Since moving into coaching, he’s developed a reputation for building smarter lineout systems, clear processes, and accountable, high-performing teams.In this session, Bernie walks us through:How to assess your lineout strengths and weaknessesThe 4-step framework he uses to evaluate lineouts at elite levelHow to turn lineout analysis into real performance improvementsPractical insights coaches can use to create clarity and accountability in their own teamsIf you coach rugby, analyze performance, or just want to understand how elite teams evaluate and improve lineouts, this video is packed with high-value coaching gold.Timestamps:0:00 – Introduction2:15 – Bernie’s playing career & learning from top coaches6:30 – What makes a lineout successful at pro level12:45 – The 4-step lineout evaluation model22:00 – How to identify weaknesses and improve performance30:10 – Key takeaways for coachesDon’t forget to subscribe for more insights from top coaches and rugby performance experts!===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
What can club rugby coaches learn from a 2× World Cup–winning coach?In this episode of The Rugby Institute, we sit down with Wesley Clarke, a two-time Rugby World Cup winner, to break down the coaching principles that actually transfer to the club game.This is not theory-heavy coach education. It’s a practical conversation about what works on the training field, in the changing room, and on game day — especially when resources are limited and players are balancing rugby with real life.We cover:How to coach defense and tackle technique safely and effectively at club levelWhat “edge” really means — and how to create it without losing your playersBuilding culture and standards that players buy intoCoaching dominant contact without chasing tackle statsAdapting elite ideas so they work with club athletes, not professionalsWhy environment matters more than systemsCommon mistakes club coaches make — and how to fix themWesley shares honest stories from his coaching journey, including being fired early in his career, learning from elite mentors, and why simple, well-coached basics outperform complex game plans at club level.If you coach club rugby, school rugby, or community teams — and you want ideas you can apply this week, this episode is for you.===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
In this episode of The Rugby Institute, we’re joined by Dave Ellis, one of the most experienced and respected rugby skills coaches in the game.With over 30 years in rugby, Dave has coached skill across every level — from grassroots and coach education to professional environments including Connacht Rugby, the Blues, and Bristol Bears in the English Premiership.Dave’s work focuses on helping players and coaches better understand what real rugby skill is, how it develops, and how to design training that actually transfers to the game. His global coaching journey and deep understanding of skill learning have made him a go-to resource for coaches around the world.Whether you’re a coach looking to improve your session design or a player wanting to develop game-ready skill, this conversation offers valuable insight from someone who’s spent a lifetime studying and coaching rugby skill.===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
In this session, Aaron Dundon, coach at Leinster Rugby, breaks down the lineout maul defence systems he used with the Tasman Makos.This is a practical, coach-focused breakdown covering how elite teams set up, organise, and shut down opposition mauls from lineouts. Aaron walks through key defensive principles, player roles, coaching cues, and simple drills you can apply directly to your own training environment.Whether you’re coaching school, club, academy, or professional rugby, this session gives you clear, actionable insight into modern lineout maul defence.📌 Topics covered:– Lineout maul defensive set-up– Roles and responsibilities– Key coaching cues– Common maul problems and fixes– Training drills to implement immediatelyIf you enjoy deep-dive coaching content like this, make sure to subscribe to The Rugby Institute for more elite insights from coaches and players around the world.===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
In this episode, we dive into the engine room of rugby—scrums, lineouts, and mauls—with one of New Zealand’s top emerging coaches. Hurricanes U20s coach Eugene Smith joins us to break down video footage, share practical progressions and drills, and unpack some of the latest coaching methods being used at the representative level. Whether you're coaching grassroots or high performance, there’s something here for every rugby coach looking to sharpen their set-piece knowledge.===========================0:00 Intro0:40 What does good scrum shape look like?1:50 What are we looking for?2:44 Static Hold Scrum Primer3:02 Power Extensions3:35 Isometric Holds 1v14:25 Advice for a strong footing?9:18 Chesting Out Drill - Tight Heads & Hookers Technique12:06 Individual Sled Work12:36 Mini Unit Sleds14:00 North/South Drill - Live 2v2 Scrum Drill16:20 4v4 Scrum Drill18:20 Tight Head Training Extras19:05 Dark Arts Tips - What can props to if someones cheating?21:44 Do scrum machines have a place in rugby today?24:30 Lineout Basics31:36 Lineout Primers for Lifters and Maul Creation32:31 How do lifters bind to jumper? High & Tight37:45 Lineout Race and Competition Drill29:13 Maul Drill with Pads41:45 How do you bind in the maul? Crutch Grip43:50 How do you create a strong team culture?52:17 Player Pathways 58:30 What are coaches looking for in players?1:03:13 Best piece of advice?1:04:46 How do you give feedback?=============================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst=============================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #scrum #lineout Our mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
Today we sit down with Amy Price—National Coach Developer at The FA and a leader in game-based learning for sport.Amy shares how video game design principles can transform the way we coach, helping players become better decision-makers, more adaptable, and more tactically aware. Instead of running isolated drills, Amy’s approach focuses on designing competitive, problem-solving environments that reflect the real demands of the game.Whether you're a coach, player, or just passionate about evolving the way rugby is taught—this conversation is packed with insights.===========================Connect with us! ============================= YouTube: ➡︎ @therugbyinstituteTik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
When should young rugby players start strength & conditioning? In this episode, S&C coach Tom Walsh breaks down the ideal starting age, when and why players or teams need an S&C coach, how to integrate S&C into rugby programs, and how gamification can improve coaching and player engagement.👉 Whether you're a coach, player, or parent—this one’s packed with practical takeaways.Check out his website here: https://anatomygaps.com/===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
Welcome to The Rugby Institute! 🏉If you're a coach, player, or just love rugby, this is the place to learn, improve, and connect. We break down game tactics, training drills, strength & conditioning, and mindset—all with real, practical advice from top players and coaches.This isn’t just a channel—it’s a community. Drop your thoughts in the comments, share what works for you, and help others get better. Let’s grow the game together.===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.
Send us a text Are you a rugby player or coach wondering if you need an agent? In this exclusive interview, we dive into the world of rugby agents to uncover what they really do and how they can help you succeed. From landing contracts and navigating negotiations to shaping long-term careers, we discuss the value agents bring to players and coaches alike. Don’t miss this insider’s guide to understanding the role of a rugby agent and how they can take your career to the next level! 🎥 Subscrib...
Producer's note
Steal the structure. Not the show.
Keep the useful structure, then change the audience, point of view, and voice until the idea is unmistakably yours.
