2. The Good Coach's Guide

In rugby union, coaches of young players should:

• Recognise the importance of fun and enjoyment when coaching young players. Most learning is achieved through doing.

• Appreciate the needs of the players before the needs of the sport.

• Be a positive role model - think what this implies.

• Keep winning and losing in perspective - encourage young players to behave with dignity in all circumstances.

• Respect all referees and the decisions they make (remember it could be you refereeing next week) and ensure that the players recognise that they must do the same.

• Provide positive verbal feedback in a constructive and encouraging manner to all young players, both during coaching sessions and games.

In rugby union, coaches of young players must:

• Provide experiences, which are matched to the young players' ages and abilities, as well as their physical and mental development.

• Ensure all youngsters are coached in a safe environment, with adequate first aid readily to hand.

• Avoid the overplaying of the best players, by using a squad system, which gives everybody a satisfactory amount of playing time.

• Never allow a player to train or play when injured.

• Ensure good supervision of young players, both on and off the field.

• Recognise that young players should never be exposed to extremes of heat, cold, or unacceptable risk of injury.

• Develop an awareness of nutrition as part of an overall education in lifestyle management.

• Recognise that it is illegal for young players under 18 to drink alcohol.

• Ensure that your knowledge and coaching strategies are up to date and in line with RFU philosophy.

• Be aware of, and abide by, the policies and procedures outlined in the RFU Child Protection Guidance Booklet.

Important note:

Coaches working with young players up to the age of 12 must follow the guidelines laid down by the RFU Rugby Continuum. Coaches working with young players aged 13+ must be aware of the Under 15 and Under 19 law variations.