Learn a little bit about the game of rugby with Mr. Eddie & Mr. Diego

Warm up

  • Right arm across your chest, using your left hand pull your right arm closer to your body for 10 seconds and then switch arms. 
  • Arms out to your sides and up like a cross, you’ll make 10 tiny circles with your arm. Then you’ll make 10 medium circles and then 10 huge circles. 
  • You’ll bring your feet together and you’ll reach for your toes for 10 seconds
  • Next you’ll spread your feet apart and you’ll reach for your right foot for 10 seconds and then move to your left foot for 10 seconds. 

Instructions

This activity will consist of five simple drills that you can use to improve your rugby skills!

Drill #1: Passing Pt. 1

Start by placing your hand by your hip with your palm facing upwards.  Extend your arm in front of your chest and twist your wrist inwards.  This movement is the same movement you will use to toss a rugby ball.

Drill #2: Passing Pt. 2

For this drill you will need a rugby ball and a partner.  Start by holding a rugby ball by your hip with your palm facing upwards.  Extend your arm in front of your chest and twist your wrist inwards, tossing the ball to your partner.  The arm you tossed the ball with should be pointing at your partner after you have tossed it.

Drill #3: Passing Pt. 3

For this drill you will need two rugby balls and a partner.  You and your partner should both be holding a rugby ball and standing approximately 10 feet apart.  Start with your ball in both hands and hold it by your hip.  You and your partner will toss the balls to each other at the same time.  Catch the ball after it is tossed and repeat 10-20 times on each side.

Drill #4: Scrum Half Passing

For this drill you will need one rugby ball and a partner.  Crouch down to one knee and place the rugby ball right in front of you.  Have your partner stand 10 feet behind you and to your side.  Toss the ball to them while kneeling.  Have your partner stand to your other side and toss the ball to them again, this time using your opposite hand.  Perform 5-10 tosses in each direction.

Drill #5: Lateral Passing

For this drill you will need one rugby ball and a partner.  Have your partner stand 10 feet behind you and to your side.  Toss the ball to them while they jog forwards.  Have your partner stand to your other side and toss the ball to them again, this time using your opposite hand.  Perform 5-10 tosses in each direction.

Drill #6: Drop Kick

For this drill you will need one rugby ball and a partner.  Have your partner stand about 50 feet away from you in an open space.  Start by dropping the ball on the floor and kicking it instantly after it touches the ground.  This will take some getting used to, but it will get easier with practice.  Perform 5 kicks and try to kick the ball directly to your partner.

Cool Down

Find a seat on the floor or on a couch or chair. Make sure your back is nice and straight. Close your eyes with your hands on your lap. Take 10 deep breaths. Repeat if needed. You’re all done! Great job! Make sure you drink some water with a healthy snack!