Rugby: Passing Behind

Simple hand drill that can be progressed onto many simple backline movements.

1 ball, 4 players, area of 20-30m by 20m

1st player starts with the ball who commences the sequence by running, 2nd player run from depth and receive the ball then pass to 3rd player who will do the same to the 4th. From this point the order will reverse to get another repetition through everyone's hands so you can score at the end of the grid.

Tell your players the following.......

• There should be one group of 4 players between each cone on the four sides of the grid.
• The ball carrying group will advance - passing the ball down the line.
• When the ball gets to the last receiver in the attacking line, they will pass the ball to the first receiver in the next attacking line.
• Simple as that - they should keep going.
• All four groups must go, in any one cycle of attacks - a cycle is 4 attacks.
• Progression: Add in one or two defenders, have them work from side to side - rather than closing down space and - don't forget to change the defenders into attack after some time in defence.

• Keep your player briefing, brief! If necessary you might considering having one group quickly demonstrate the exercise to the other players.
• Tell the players the following.......

1. This exercise is nice and simple, and fun.
2. Each player will stand on a cone.
3. The game starts with 1 pass right, then two passes left, then three right, then four left, then five right and so on until someone makes a mistake.
4. The tempo of this game should be high.
5. Close the circle as each player leaves.
6. If you make a mistake, your out!
7. A mistake includes: dropped balls and bad passes.
8. The last two players standing, still play the game with two balls.
9. If players can't agree who made a mistake - you resolve all disputes.
10. Quick Hands!

• This should be fun!
• Don't forget to keep players that have been put out busy.

Passing in partners.

Players stand opposite each other about 3-4m away. One player will take 1-2 steps forward, then pass back and sideways to their partner. Their partner then takes 1-2 steps forward, as they walk backwards to their original spot, so the player can pass back to them. Continuous walking and passing.