women's rugby coaching

WOMENS RUGBY COACHINGMAY 2021 | ISSUE 004 | BY SUBSCRIPTION ONLY

ZEE THE BULLDOZER ALEMARUGBY PLAYER MOTHER NURSE

PUSH THE PUSH THE BOUNDARIESBOUNDARIES

During the last month the womenrsquos and girlsrsquo sections at Huddersfield RUFC has really taken off The majority of the players have never played rugby before Everyone is getting involved and learning together Itrsquos been amazing to see their progress so far

Our current aim is introducing the concept of passing backwards However this doesnrsquot have to be rushed Using a game where the player can pass in any direction and then adding in a rule where you need one or two backwards passes in a try scoring attempt for the score to count Alongside developing their rugby knowledge wersquore also developing their ability to problem solve and their tactical awareness

Within my coaching I place equal importance in these skills and the ability to pass backwards Tackling rucking passing tactical awareness and problem solving are all areas that wersquore working on in the sessions Itrsquos been great to see everyonersquos confidence grow

As coaches we have the power to create environments where our players can feel comfortable to train and develop their skills However there are aspects which can impact a female players performance and confidence that are beyond our control

One issue that affects playersrsquo attendance and ability is menstruation A subject that I felt was really important to tackle in our first issue This month wersquore focusing on sports bras A poorly fitting sports bra can impact how a player moves It will affect how comfortable and confident a player can be

Like menstruation it can be a tricky topic for coaches to discuss with

Issue 004 May 2021

players I spoke to Dr Nicola Brown on how to get the right fit of sports bra Dr Brown is working for St Marys University and conducts research into bras and education around breast health As well as education on the right fit of bra she discusses how clubs and coaches can pass this message to players

One way to do this is by placing a poster up in the changing room This ensures players understand what fit is right for them as itrsquos different depending on their cup size Wersquove made this even easier for our Womenrsquos Rugby Coaching subscribers by producing a poster that you can print out and display in the changing rooms at your club It contains the information Dr Brown discusses in her article in a way thatrsquos easy to read and understand

It will hopefully serve as a good conversation starter for players on finding the right fit for them It will also prompt them to learn more and make sure theyrsquore safe and ready for rugby

How comfortable someone feels in an environment will also impact whether they turn up to try rugby

I spoke to Zainab Alema a black Muslim rugby player mother and nurse on how to ensure a training session is a welcoming environment for everybody We discussed how rugby clubs can promote their sport to people who wouldnrsquot normally pick up a rugby ball

Rugby prides itself on being a sport for everyone I truly believe that having a message that a sport is for everyone no matter their shape or size is empowering However rugby can do more to make sure more people receive that message Whether itrsquos working with different organisations to deliver rugby in community programs having the club colours on a sports hijab for any female Muslim player to wear as part of their rugby kit or including social events that arenrsquot focused on drinking

As coaches and club members we have the ability to involve more people in rugby We can help break down some of the barriers that prevent people from trying and falling in love with the sport

Womens Rugby Coaching is part of Rugby Coach Weekly website and weekly digital magazine which offers proven easy to use rugby drills coaching sessions practice plans training games warm-ups tips and advice The resources are created for the grassroots coach following best practice from around the world and insights from the professional game

Womens Rugby Coaching is published by Green Star Media Ltd

Womens Editor Jess Bunyard

Consultant EditorLiza Burgess

Head of Rugby Dan Cottrell

Pictures Reuters Media ExpressOmega Photography

Production Green Star Media Ltd

Customer servicessupportrugbycoachweeklynet

Managing Director Kevin Barrow

(c) Green Star Media Ltd All rights reserved Click here to read the full disclaimer Cover picture Zainab Alema(Photo Jack Tompkins)

To subscribe to Womens Rugby Coachinggo to Womensrugbycoachingcomor subscribe online here

2

Break down barriers across all the game

Jess Bunyard

womensrugbycoachingcom Issue 004

Zainab Alema mother nurse rugby player

WOMEN S RUGBY COACHING

Getting the right support P3Being aware of breast health and how to empower through educationCreate a positive post-match P6Engage players after a game to keep them coming back to a clubThe Bulldozer pushes boundaries P8Zainab Alema on being a Muslim rugby player and how clubs can open their doors to different communities 3 ways to use dice P12Add dice to your coaching toolbox to enhance players learningProtect and steal P13Two activities to help players work on their ruck positionsRapid fire touch P14Quick transition game Counter attack tennis P15 Tactical kicking and support

FROM THE EDITOR

THIS MONTHS CONTRIBUTORS

CONTENTS

Dr Nicola BrownAssociate Professor in Female Health at St Maryrsquos UniversityMichele AmosGirls coach coach mentor team manager at Basingstoke RFCVicki GreensmithChair of girls rugby and U18s team manager at Sandal RUFC

Zainab AlemaSunday Times Grassroots Sportswoman of the Year 2020Rob NicholCoached with London St Georges RFC in London and OntarioJames ClarkOwner of JSC and coaches with Gloucester DPP

Phot

o J

ack

Tom

kins

3

EQUIPMENT

womensrugbycoachingcom Issue 004 WOMEN S RUGBY COACHING

Working for St Maryrsquos University shersquos conducted research into what makes a good fit of bra Whether yoursquore an A or an E cup 32 or 42 back size donrsquot worry coaches shersquos also got advice for you on how to tackle this tricky issue at your club Male or female breast health education is empowerment

TACKLE THE MISCONCEPTIONSThe key factor to sports bras and how effective they are is how well they fit

Fit is a common problem among women On average around 85 of women are thought to be wearing the wrong size braI did a study involving nearly 1300 marathon runners Theyrsquore all doing high volumes of training 97 said they were running in sports bras However they generally rated their own knowledge of breast health as average or below average

Therersquos still a lot of commonly held misconceptions around breasts One is that the breast has muscle tissue in it which will support the breast and make them perkier

However the breast does not contain any muscle tissue Itrsquos support comes from the skin which can be damaged overtime from movement There are thin hair-like structures inside the breast called Cooperrsquos ligaments These are interwoven through the breast tissue and they provide the natural breast support

If we donrsquot exercise with appropriate support we could be potentially damaging or stretching those supporting structures That damage can sometimes be accompanied by pain and we know a lot of women also experience breast pain

Women can also experience pain in their breast that is related to their menstrual cycle If players are experiencing pain it might change their training patterns or they might want to reduce the intensity of the activity

An athlete will be more comfortable saying therersquos a pain in their hamstring or theyrsquove twisted their ankle compared with telling a coach theyrsquore experiencing breast pain

However the pain might be impacting their performance As women we tend to accept breast pain but therersquos a lot we can do to try and minimise it or eliminate it completely

EDUCATION NEEDEDThere has to be education about the importance of breast support what different

types of sports bras there are on the market and how you find the right one for you

The fit of a bra is really important It impacts health quality of life ability to exercise recreationally and athletic performance

We did a study to look at how a good fitting sports bra can improve performance If you change the level of breast support we identified that it changes your stride length when yoursquore running

When yoursquore wearing little breast support you will tend to take shorter strides Itrsquos

Getting the right support

On average around 85 of women are thought to be

wearing the wrong size bra

Breast health is important Women and girls have reported feeling uncomfortable during exercise or put off altogether because of inadequate breast support As well as hurting breasts can be damaged if the fit of a bra isnrsquot right Finding the right fit especially for a sports bra can feel like a minefield Dr Nicola Brown of St Marys University will help you feel supported for rugby

[continued on next page]

INJURY REPORTIn a survey of 297 female athletes from Australian Football Rugby League Rugby Union (15s and 7s) and 242 coaches and support staff support staff estimated5 of players suffer from breast injuries58 athletes experienced a breast injury at training or a matchBrooke Brisbine University of WollongongAustralian Institute of Sport

4

EQUIPMENT


almost a protective mechanism trying to absorb that movement and reduce the impact

That is a reduction of one or two centimetres per step due to the change of strides Over the course of a 5K 10K or a marathon that would equate to quite a decrease in time if the runner was wearing a sport bra with a proper fit for them

The statistic is a really good way to get across the importance of what a sports bra can do Imagine if you cloned two runners and the only thing you changed was their breast support

One was in a well fitted sports bra and one was not the runner in the sports bra would finish a mile ahead of the other

This corresponds to rugby as well not just athletics Therersquos running in rugby but also lots of contact We want to keep people safe and secure so they can put themselves in the strongest position Sports bras are an important part of this

There was a study led by another breast research group in the University of Wollongong

They looked at a range of different sports including rugby and spoke to around 300 sportswomen and almost 250 coaching and medical staff The survey reported that 58 of athletes said they had suffered a breast injury during training or a match However when asked the coaches and staff said they estimated only 5 had a breast injury

I think itrsquos the first time that statistics around breast injuries in sport have been reported Sport is good at tracking injuries but often the breast is ignored

The stark difference between the athletesrsquo number of 58 and the coachesrsquo estimates of 5 is because wersquore often not comfortable sharing information about our breasts

ROLE MODELS CAN LEAD THE WAY

We need to create an environment where it can be easily talked about One way to do this is to have an advocate within a group It might be another player or an older player that is almost a role model

Participants might feel more comfortable talking to them than they would do their coach Therersquos an educational resource called Treasure Your Chest which is aimed at young girls mainly but is a good start for anyone wanting to know more

We know that nearly half of girls say that they donrsquot want to participate in sport because of their breasts Theyrsquore worried about pain what they look like when theyrsquore moving or what the boys think of them

They also said they didnrsquot know anything about sports bras or how to check if they fit There was a partnership set up by St Maryrsquos University University of Portsmouth Research Group in Breast Health and University of Chichester Institute of Sport Treasure Your Chest educational package came out of that partnership

TREASURE YOUR CHESTTreasure Your Chest is there to teach girls about their breast health Itrsquos free to use for schools and sports clubs

Anyone can download it and use those resources The starting point is making resources and information available

Having a poster in the changing room would also plant seeds in their minds and theyrsquoll want to know more

Sometimes itrsquos also a case of sitting down and raising the topic You can introduce

the topic as an ice breaker and then try to encourage dialogue from the players

It comes down to knowing the individuals If players are looking to increase their performance then they will be more interested in the marginal gains

You can use that to get them engaged However having an advocate or a role model for players to talk to is one of the most important things Itrsquos really useful if yoursquore a male coach

Thatrsquos not to say that male coaches shouldnrsquot talk about those issues There are great male coaches that are happy to talk about lsquotaboorsquo subjects such as the menstrual cycle

Just as there are female coaches that are uncomfortable and will avoid these topics We need to educate coaches irrespective of gender

GIRLS AWARENESSA study published 2016 found that

96 of girls (11-18) wear breast support

46 of girls said it affected their participation in exercise

More than 50 said they had not worn a sports bra during sporting activities

Scurr J Brown N Smith J Brasher A Risius D amp Marczyk A (2016) The influence of the breast on sport and exercise participation in schoolgirls in the UK Journal of Adolescent Health 58(2) 167-173

Better suited for D cup and above Made with two separate cups to

support each breast Adjustable straps Make sure the underband has a firm

fit

Better suited for A to C cup Better suited for lower impact

activity

Made with two separate cups to support each breast

Layer of compressive material over the top

Adjustable straps Make sure itrsquos a firm fit for the

underband


ENCAPSULATION SPORTS BRA COMPRESSION SPORTS BRA COMBINATION SPORTS BRA

5

EQUIPMENT


GET THE RIGHT FITA sports bra would be good to see on the list of recommended equipment for PE and it should be viewed the same as a mouth guard It should be acknowledged this is equipment that is needed

Therersquos different types of bras which can make it confusing when yoursquore looking for the right one Therersquos the everyday style of bra that has two separate cups to hold each breast separately Thatrsquos called the encapsulation bra Therersquos the compression bra which is more like a crop top bra

Research shows that the compression bras are better suited to smaller breasted women If yoursquore larger an encapsulation sports bra is recommended for you

There are also combination bras which use elements from both styles Those types of bras have a separate pocket for each breast and then a layer of compressive material over the top

With compression bras itrsquos important to think about the level of activity yoursquore doing If you can stretch something over your shoulders itrsquos not going to be that tight around your rib cage

A common misconception is that the only support in a bra comes from the straps Women aim to make the straps as tight as possible to try and lift the breasts

However itrsquos the underband that provides the majority of support To get a good fit for the underband it needs to be firm to not ride up the back and it stays in place when you move

In terms of research for the straps therersquos not a lot of difference between the two strap configurations for reducing breast movement Whether yoursquove got those vertical standard straps or the crossover racerback there are generally the same kind of pressures on your shoulders

However itrsquos important to ensure that the shoulder straps arenrsquot slipping off your shoulders Adjustable straps are good as you can change them to make them fit

Itrsquos important to talk about the fact that some women can get pressure sores shoulder pain or neck pain from the straps especially if theyrsquore larger breasted

Some women may add gel pads underneath their straps if theyrsquore feeling a lot of pressure but Irsquom not sure how effective that would be especially with contact

So itrsquos important to make sure the breasts are supported by the underband and not just the straps so that the pressure is distributed over the whole bra

When you think about most bras we focus on reducing the bounce which is an up and down movement However the breast doesnrsquot just move up and down in a straight line The breast moves in 3 directions It moves up and down side to side and forwards and backwards

MULTIDIRECTIONAL SUPPORTIf yoursquore in a sport where you are changing direction such as rugby you should be looking for a bra that provides more mediolateral protection (side to side) as well

This kind of sports bra might have additional stitching or extra cup support to limit the side to side movement

Therersquos not really a lot of bras on the market that will say theyrsquore designed with specific sports in mind This is another reason why itrsquos so hard for women to find the right bra Itrsquos not just about knowing what size to have Therersquos no set or magic criteria for a bra to have in order to market itself as a sports bra

My advice to try a bra on jump around move in it so you can see how it feels for you So donrsquot be afraid to jump around in the changing room check if you can feel any movement Look in the mirror and check again if you can see movement

Go try on a bra but go armed with information so you know what to look for for you

You are your best advocate as to whether a product is working for you

5simple steps

Here are the key points to watch out for

Breasts come in all shapes and sizes and so do bras Whatever bra you choose a key thing to check is that the bra fits you well

wwwtreasureyourchestorg contacttreasureyourchestorg

This should be even if you jump around You donrsquot want it too tight ndash it should be a snug fit Only should fit under it

These should be tight enough that only fit underneath but not so tight that they dig into you

and not so loose that they slip off you

People often wear cups that are too small causing the breast to spill out Too big and the cup hangs away from the breast

This should If it doesnrsquot your cup might be too small

Therersquos nothing wrong with wearing an underwired bra as long as it is a The underwire shouldnrsquot sit on any

including under your arms

Too small

Toobig

RIGHT FIT FOR RUGBYClothing for rugby must not have

Any sharp or abrasive item Any items containing buckles clips rings hinges zippers screws bolts or rigid material or projection

Avoid sports bras with underwire and zippershttpslawsworldrugbyorglaw=4amplanguage=EN

6

MANAGEMENT


FOCUSED DEVELOPMENTMichelle Amos team manager for all three girls sections lead coach for u13 girls coach mentor for girls rugby coaches at Basingstoke RFCGetting players to work with coaches to create goals is an important tool for player development It can also ensure players and coaches are focused on targets other than a win or a loss

Try focusing on these goals after a match

as well as before This helps a team reflect on the bigger picture and playersrsquo development rather than the score line

There are multiple ways to highlight goals This could be on cards written by the players or for team goals you could write it down on a whiteboard before kick off This enables your team to refer to their goals at half time and at the end of the match

We aim to create an environment where performance is valued over outcome Our players donrsquot take themselves too seriously As soon as the final whistle goes they want to know what theyrsquore having for the post-

match mealThe players have

personal and team targets At the start of the game the players will have a huddle to make sure everyone is confident they know what theyrsquore doing and are focused on their targets These could be individual such as improving their counter-rucking or it could be a team goal for example try kicking more

After the game we focus on these targets and not whether we won or lost

The discussions are always positivePlayers reflect on what they did well They

talk about the degrees of success they had with their targets and what they will do next time Plus we view our post-match chocolate as part of our 5-a-day

How to create a positive post-match Creating a positive post-match environment helps keep players engaged It also allows them to create better bonds with teammates and gives coaches invaluable time to talk to parents and guardians Here are ideas from Michele Amos and Vicki Greensmith on how theyrsquove achieved a positive post-match environment within their own club


We aim to create an environment where

performance is valued over outcome

Michele Amos Basingstoke RFC

Post-match chocolate counted as part of the our 5-a-day

7

MANAGEMENT


write about what went well and areas for development

We often serve sit down to eat and then tidy up like one big family We encourage club members to bake food which then gets brought to a game

Itrsquos not just the players sitting down to eat families are encouraged to stay It gives coaches and managers an opportunity to chat to families and players about anything thatrsquos on their minds

We also have ldquoonesies and pizzardquo nights Players will arrive actually in onesies wersquoll have pizza and wersquoll watch some footage of our matches

Then there will be some analysis of the game and how well everyone did Players love the way we keep it all inclusive

CELEBRATE LIKE A FAMILYVicki Greensmith chair of girls rugby and U18s manager at Sandal RUFC manager of Yorkshire U18s girlsCreating a bond to the club and to their teammates that extends beyond the pitch will keep players coming back

Players will feel part of the club especially if they have kit to wear after matches Getting a team and their wider family to sit down together and celebrate achievements means everyone gets to share in the fun

One of the important factors in player retention and understanding the players yoursquore coaching is getting to know the parents and guardians

Often families are the ones driving players to games and training Itrsquos important to make the wider family feel welcome as well as the player An inclusive post-match atmosphere can help achieve this

Overall our post-match tone is quite celebratory regardless of the outcome We secured sponsorship smart tops to be worn after the match Players are comfortable and they look smart and feel good Itrsquos important that they feel part of the club and the team off the pitch as well as on it

We also give out awards for both teams These can be the traditional player of the match but also lsquobest momentrsquo or lsquomost improvedrsquo

The awards arenrsquot given out to the same people all the time itrsquos important to fairly distribute them each match

We also emphasize these awards in closed social media groups Coaches will often

Is your session APESACTIVELots of activity lots of chances to try outPURPOSEFULAimed the objectivesENJOYABLEThe player feel involvedSAFEBoth personally and physically

Jesss tipsGive the participants a sense of achievementldquoI often say that by the end of the session they will have played a form of rugby So that they could go home and say they played rugby todayrdquo

Vicki Greensmith Sandal RUFC

Onesies and pizza are a match made in heaven

Post-match tone should be about celebration no matter what the outcome

8

INTERVIEW


A bulldozer is a machine that can push soil and rubble out of the way and help clear a path

This nickname is clearly a fitting one for Zainab Alema as she not only is a force to be reckoned with on the pitch but shersquos creating a path for others to follow in her footsteps

Zainab or Zee is a black Muslim female rugby player as well as a nurse and a mother who dreams of playing for England

Each step Zee takes on a rugby pitch inspires other mothers black and Muslim women to pick up a rugby ball and try it for themselves

MY RUGBY JOURNEYI first touched a rugby ball at the age of 14 My PE teachers first introduced me to it I didnrsquot know anything about the game but I really enjoyed it

About three years later I was in my sixth

form and I loved physical education I had to do a physical element to my course I asked my teacher if I could use rugby because I remembered enjoying it in school

The teacher went out of her way to find me a club I ended up going to Ealing Trailfinders as it wasnrsquot too far away

After Sixth Form I went to university I really wanted to continue playing rugby During my time at Ealing I had no knowledge of what I was doing I was rucking on the wrong side dropping balls However I knew I loved the game

It wasnrsquot until I went to university that I experienced that culture shock At Ealing I was still new to the game and trying to get my head around the rules so I didnrsquot notice much about my surroundings

I didnrsquot play rugby for the first term at University I wasnrsquot sure if they were going to accept me Even going to a new club is scary for someone but university is a difficult time as yoursquore figuring out who you are and what your beliefs are

The second term I went to a training session I got on well with the girls but it was tough being the only black girl and the only Muslim girl

My mind kept repeating that ldquoI have a different way of life I look different Do I belong hererdquo

It was a struggle to be in a space and not

see anyone that I could relate to

The drinking aspect was tough If you win player of the match you have to go to the bar and down a pint I used to refuse

I didnrsquot tell the players it made me uncomfortable I just had to nominate someone else to down it It was very embarrassing for me I was scared to say ldquoIrsquom a Muslim and I donrsquot drinkrdquo

I was worried that I wouldnrsquot be accepted It didnrsquot help that at the time there was a lot in the media about Islamic extremism and terrorism

It felt like every time something like that came up people would look at me as a Muslim woman and link me to that That scares me because itrsquos nothing to do with the everyday Muslim like myself and the majority of us

However some people dont see any difference which is worrying I used to think ldquoThey wouldnrsquot accept me they wouldnrsquot want a terrorist on the teamrdquo

Eventually I moved over to West London and joined Barnes RFC There was something

The Bulldozer pushes the boundaries

The drinking aspect was tough If you win player of the match you have

to go to the bar and down a pint

Zee ldquoBulldozerrdquo Alema shares her experiences of being a Muslim mum playing rugby and offers advice on how rugby clubs can make the sport more accessible to Muslim women


My mind kept repeating ldquoI have a different way of life I look different Do I

belong hererdquo

Phot

o B

en P

eter

s

9

INTERVIEW


RUGBY CLUBS CAN REACH OUTIf it wasnrsquot for my PE teacher I wouldnrsquot have had access to rugby It wouldnrsquot have been in my vision

Schools are great but there are other facilities that young people have access to

that rugby can be in Youth centres local estates low socio-economic areas could have rugby Itrsquos not always about ethnic minorities

There are children from deprived areas that donrsquot hold a rugby ball but they could Rugby has to go to places where the sport is not known

For someone like me itrsquos a lot Irsquom coming from an ethnic minority and Irsquom a woman Therersquos an assumption that we shouldnrsquot be playing rugby Therersquos sexist issues race issues and class issues within sport and they play a part in someone taking part

I know how much rugby can give you The values it has The power it can give you

Rugby can be an outlet to people struggling in life Itrsquos sad to know that the sport isnrsquot pushed in the communities that need it A local estate could benefit from having a programme with a rugby club to get young people into the sport

A rugby club could have summer camps for faith schools or faith organisations

Reach out to organisations that work with ethnic minorities to see if rugby can be

introduced using their facilities within their programmes A rugby club isnrsquot having to set anything new up The organisation is there all they have to do is take rugby to it

BE A ROLE MODELWe need more role models Representation is huge

Maggie Alphonsi was my idol She really helped me stay in rugby Maggie is a black player in an England shirt

If she can do it I can do it Having those role models helps draw people in Since Irsquove been more active on social media and Irsquove been talking to people

Therersquos been people that have reached out to me wanting to play rugby Itrsquos those little things If someone sees that yoursquore enjoying your passion theyrsquoll be tempted to give it a go

I want to play for England one day thatrsquos my dream Itrsquos not just about my journey itrsquos bigger than me Imagine that I get to wear the England shirt one day That will open up a whole audience

Just like how I was with Maggie there will be young black girls and Muslim girls who will be inspired and see themselves in me

I might not make it all the way but Irsquom making the path easier for someone else

about the vibe of the club that was really comforting to me However at that time I was also confident in myself and that helped

Irsquom comfortable being a black Muslim woman in rugby and Irsquom happy at the bar with my non-alcoholic drink


WHAT TO WEARSome Muslim women and girls may want to cover every part of their body except their faceLaws of rugby fully allow any level of modesty for female players Clothing laws state women are permitted to wear

Cotton blend long tights with single inside leg seam under their shorts and socks

Headscarves providing they do not cause a danger to the wearer or other players

Baselayer shirts with long sleeves are permitted for both sexes

httpswwwworldrugbythe-gamelawslaw4

httpyorkshirerfupitcherocompagerugbysafewhats-it-all-aboutclothing-and-footwear-16347WHOS ACTIVE

A Women in Sport report classed being active as doing at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week Muslim women are the least active category507 of Muslim women are activeThis contrasted with the following72 of women of no religion are active63 of women of Christian faith are activehttpswwwwomeninsportorgresearch-and-adviceour-publicationsmuslim-women-and-girls-insight-pack

Maggie Alphonsi England World Cup winner media pundit and inspiration to Zee Maggie is a black player in an England shirt

10

INTERVIEW


MAKING YOUR CLUB MORE WELCOMING TO DIFFERENT PEOPLE If a Muslim comes to your rugby club then ask questions Donrsquot assume Therersquos no harm in asking questions especially if itrsquos coming from a genuine place Do you drink Do you want an orange juice or a pint

Have socials that arenrsquot drink based There should be an environment where you donrsquot feel pressured to drink Irsquove spoken to people who do drink alcohol and they still feel pressured to drink during socials

Think about socials you can have that arenrsquot alcohol based Last year at Barnes we played rounders We didnrsquot go out to get drunk it was something different for everyone

There are also a lot of sports hijabs on the market but therersquos not much if you wanted one in your club colours

Imagine being a Muslim and going to a club and theyrsquove got a sports hijab with the club colours or logo on That would make that player feel instantly accepted

A sports hijab is an essential bit of kit for me to play rugby Clubs do scrunchies and hair bands in their colours why not hijabs I

think we have a lot to do to make sport accessible and visible for Muslim girls

Itrsquos important to take time to understand the players background and where theyrsquore coming from

There can often be a language barrier If someone uses slang often they might not communicate well with someone who uses a different vocabulary Itrsquos making sure everyone is comfortable and can communicate with each other

There can be a language difference between classes It can put people off especially if it feeds into a perception that an environment isnrsquot for them

BALANCING RUGBY AND MOTHERHOODCoaches need to be aware that mums canrsquot always stay long after a session as they need to get home to their children

Often they will need to head straight home The last match I played I was breast feeding My coach wanted to start me but I asked to come on off the bench as my child is on a feeding schedule She was more than happy to change plans

That conversation was helpful as I didnrsquot have to miss a feed to play rugby I could do both I could be the mum I wanted to be and be a rugby player

The coach being aware that mumrsquos need extra time and giving them the space they need is helpful

Allowing them to follow their mum routine

and not have rugby disrupting that for them

I was scared coming back after having a baby I was worried I would let the team down as I wasnrsquot fit

A coach can help by acknowledging that and supporting them with their return to rugby

Having an option to reduce tackling in a session if yoursquore breastfeeding would be good

Coaches can make players aware that there is a modification available in training if theyrsquore breast feeding

Visit Zee hereStuds in the mud instragram

Zee Alema instagram

PARTICIPATION IMPROVEMENTSTo increase participation of Muslim women and girls a Women in Sport report recommended that clubs

Enable Muslim girls to wear clothes they feel comfortable in This removes the potential barrier that adhering to Islam dress protocols presents

Be aware of holidays such as Ramadan when rituals such as fasting might impact the ability of Muslim students to participate in PE and other physical activities

Enable privacy such as private areas for changing in changing rooms and separated showersTreat the players as individualsldquoMuslim women in the UK are a diverse group Treating them as a monolithic group will fail to engage those who are not already taking part in physical activity and sportrdquo

Ask questions Treat them as an individual Be adaptable to accommodate different needs

httpswwwwomeninsportorgwp-contentuploads201912Muslim-Women-and-Girls-Insight-Pack-FINALpdf

Imagine being a Muslim and going to a club and

theyrsquove got a sports hijab with the club colours or

logo on That would make that player feel instantly

accepted

Zee balancing her rugby life with her three children

Phot

o G

eoff

Pug

h

3 ways to use diceUsing dice can feel like a one session gimmick Add some unpredictability into your training session by using a foam dice Try these three ideas in your main games or a warm up to add dice into regular training toolbox Time10-15 minutesMinimum level of equipmentA set of cones 1-2 balls foam dieCore skillsTactical awareness

11

HOW TOSESSSIONS


This month were throwing some unpredicatbility into your sessions to mimic a match Use some luck to design elements of your training These activities will also allow players to work on developing an effective transition from attack to defence and vice versa

Quickfire guide to our activities

Touchturnover

2 points

P12

P13

P15

P14

Protect and stealFocus your training around this two-part activity It gets players to work on their positioning in and around the ruck Try using this as a large portion of your session to get players to build up confidence and technique Time15-30 minutesMinimum level of equipmentCones 1-2 ballsCore skillsBody position around contact

Rapid fire touchThis game fits easily anywhere in your session It allows players to work on the transition from defence to attack Teams get a chance to work on support and their evasive skills as well Time10-15 minutesMinimum level of equipmentCones 1-2 ballsCore skillEvasion support transition

Counter attack tennisBring the tennis court into rugby and allow players to get confident with their kicking Players get to work on their kick chase and evasion The use of points adds some competition and incentive Time10-20 minutesMinimum level of equipmentCones 1-2 ballsCore skillsKicking kick chase evasive skills


USING DICE IN A WARM UP

1 Create a circle large enough for 10 players to freely move2 Play a game of 5v5 3 Players must get 10 consecutive passes and a number of

kicks for the score to count For example 10 passes and 3 kicks between team mates to score

4 Players decide the number of kicks by rolling the dice at the start of the game

USING DICE TO REWARD A GOAL

1 Create a box large enough for a game of 5v52 Get the players to decide what their goal is as a team

This is something theyrsquore currently working on For example using a loop or trying a grubber kick

3 When the players try the goal at the next break in play they get a roll of the dice

4 Whatever number is rolled is added to their score

USING DICE TO CREATE THE GAME

1 Create a box large enough for a game of 5v5 2 Start the game off with touch tackles and multidirectional

passing 3 Have 6 game adaptions written down 4 For example 1 backwards passes only 2 everyone has to

touch the ball before the score 3 when touched players must fall to the floor and present the ball 4 scores from a kick are double points 5 there must be 6 passes or more before the score 6 every two scores the teams select a new leader

5 Each time a try is scored players roll the dice Whatever number is rolled is the new game adaptation that must be used

6 Using half the pitch make 9 circles on the ground with cones 7 yellow 1 red and 1 blue Can use hula hoops instead

Using large foam dice can be a great way to bring in some random elements to training Not everything is predictable in a game so try using that dice to bring that environment into training Wersquove got three ideas on how to use dice in your next session

3 ways to use dice

12

GAMES

Pass Ground covered Direction of run

Progression Each team rolls the dice twice at the start of game To decide how many passes and how many kicks they have to do for the score

Coaching tip Getting players to roll the dice gets them instantly engaged in the warm up game and therefore instantly engaged in the session


Progression After the players have gained confidence in the goal award a dice roll for when the goal is successful For example the loop works without any dropped balls

Coaching tip Get the players to set the goal themselves for their team It helps them identify what theyrsquore wanting to work on

Coaching tip You can use any game adaptions you choose However because the game uses the dice roll therersquos no guarantee that the rules will follow any order Choose game modifications that will work in any order Putting in a leadership rule allows this to be worked on alongside other skills

SET UPSet up two boxes one large enough for 15 a side game and the other for a skill focus

HOW TO DO ITgt In the larger box teams of between 7 and 15 play a non-contact game

gt Teams score by touching the ball down on the lines at either end of the box

gt Players with the ball are stopped by a two-handed touch on the hips or below

gt If a player gets touched they drop to the ground and present the ball back to their team

gt When the player with the ball presents the ball a person from his team rucks uncontested over to protect the ball If no player rucks over then the opposition can steal the ball

gt A third player on the attacking team picks up the ball up and play resumes

SKILL FOCUSgt In the smaller box take four players at a time out of the game to focus on skills

gt Players run an unopposed ruck one player drops to the ground and presents the ball the second player rucks over to protect the ball the third picks the ball up and passes it to the fourth who runs forward and presents

gt This cycle continues with pauses to focus on good technique

DEVELOPMENTSTurnover possession if a player fails to drop to the ground when touched or if the attacking player is offside when entering the ruck

TECHNIQUEgt Positioning after a tackle

gt Organisation at and around the ruck

This two-part activity contains a large game and a breakout area with a skill focus Both elements enable players to focus on their ruck positioning in a non-contact environment Thanks to Michelle Amos girls team manager and U13s girls lead coach at Basingstoke RFC

Protect and steal

13

RUCKS


Focus on observing good body positions

and organisation

Correct praise and reinforce body

positions when needed

Create one large and one small box using differently coloured

cones

Take four players out

of the game to focus on the ruck

Make sure each player tries

different roles


NOTES The skill box is designed to work on playerrsquos technique and their confidence Encourage players to try all four roles a number of times before returning to the game COMMENTSldquoIrsquove used this game with the U13s girls that I coach Itrsquos great for working on ball placement and allowing the players to work out which placement is best It also works on playerrsquos ability to correct and think in real time For example the second attacking player who is rucking over might need to correct or adjust themselves if the placement of the ball is not good It also allows players to develop their decision making and scanning when picking the ball up from the ruck I focus my coaching points around three elements praise correct and remind Praise a player on something correct an aspect of play and remind them of itrdquo

Coach players

through a game of touch with non-contested rucks

LARGE BOX

SMALL BOX

WHY USE IT Having a number of cones the same colour gives players different places to kick from Players can work on strategy within the game by picking a cone they can kick from

SET UPCreate a box that is wide and slightly narrow Split the players into 3 teams of 4 Two teams play in the box and one team waits outside the box

HOW TO DO ITgt Teams play a game of touch rugby with backwards passes only

gt If the ball carrier gets touched by two defenders at the same time itrsquos an instant turnover

gt The team that now has possession must run to the nearest goal line and turn to immediately attack the opposite line

gt The team that lost possession must leave the pitch The third team enter the box to immediately defend

DEVELOPMENTSgt The ball carrier is allowed to continue running after the first touch but they canrsquot score If they get touched a second time the ball is turned over and the teams swap

COMMENTSI came up with this game when we only had a basketball gym for winter training It soon became a game that players requested at training Itrsquos highly adaptable and works on both attack and defence Players wonrsquot be left standing around for long due to the rapid changes

This quick paced game challenges teams to work on their transition from defence to attack Players can develop their evasive skills and support under pressure Thanks to Rob Nichol who has coached with London St Georges RFC in London Ontario and Westshore RFC in Victoria British Columbia

Rapid fire touch

14

GAMES

KIck Ground covered Direction of run

Touchturnover

Award a turnover if the ball carrier is

stopped by two defenders

The team that was attacking

now leaves the box

A new team enters the box and must

immediately defend

Split players into three teams One team waits outside the box

Players awarded with the turnover must

turn and run to their try line before attacking


NOTESTry having a few games running at a time for larger groups This game helps players force turnovers through connected and aggressive defence

Players in attack will be challenged to find space and to quickly support the ball carrier It also helps develop quick reactions in defence

SET UPA box with two try lines a halfway line and two quarter lines Split into two teams each standing either side of the halfway line

HOW TO DO ITgt One member of the team kicks to the opposition

gt If a player on the opposing team catches it theyrsquore now attacking with their teammates

gt They have to get the ball as far as they can before getting touched Theyrsquore allowed to pass to a teammate

gt A new round starts The team that attacked now kicks to the other team

gt Teams can get points depending on the kick and how far they get if theyrsquore attacking

Kicking team

1 point for if the team donrsquot catch the ball

3 points for a kick that bounces inside and then lands out of the box

3 points for touch tackling the ball carrier in the opposition quarter

2 points for touch tackling the ball carrier on the halfway

1 point for touch tackling the ball carrier in their own quarter

Receiving team

1 point for making it past their own quarter line before being touch tackled

2 points for making it to the halfway line before being touch tackled

3 points for making it to the opposition quarter line before being touch tackled

5 points for scoring a try without being touch tackled

TECHNIQUESEvasive skills passing kicking support kick chase

Inspired by tennis this game rewards players for trying tactical kicking The better they work together the more points they get Thanks to James Clark Owner of JSC Rugby Gloucester DPP Coach Oxfordshire County Coach and High Wycombe U18 lead coach

2 points

Counter attack tennis

15

COUNTER ATTACK


Kick off to improve kicking and

catching confidence

Encourage players to break through

a defensive line without being touched

The ball is then kicked to the

defending teams space

Mark out a large box with two try lines one halfway line and

two quarter-way lines

Each team scores points for different

outcomes Here the kicking team has touched the receiving team before the halfway


NOTESThe points donrsquot accumulate So if the team make it to the halfway line before the ball carrier is touch tackled they receive a total of 2 points They then return to their half of the box with the ball The next round begins when they kick the ball to the opponentsrsquo half COMMENTSI love this game because of the many options both teams have to explore Irsquove used it full pitch with 15 v 15 all the way down to 3 v 3 You can use it as an evasive game as well giving players the chance to develop their kicking confidence

During the last month the womenrsquos and girlsrsquo sections at Huddersfield RUFC has really taken off The majority of the players have never played rugby before Everyone is getting involved and learning together Itrsquos been amazing to see their progress so far

Our current aim is introducing the concept of passing backwards However this doesnrsquot have to be rushed Using a game where the player can pass in any direction and then adding in a rule where you need one or two backwards passes in a try scoring attempt for the score to count Alongside developing their rugby knowledge wersquore also developing their ability to problem solve and their tactical awareness

Within my coaching I place equal importance in these skills and the ability to pass backwards Tackling rucking passing tactical awareness and problem solving are all areas that wersquore working on in the sessions Itrsquos been great to see everyonersquos confidence grow

As coaches we have the power to create environments where our players can feel comfortable to train and develop their skills However there are aspects which can impact a female players performance and confidence that are beyond our control

One issue that affects playersrsquo attendance and ability is menstruation A subject that I felt was really important to tackle in our first issue This month wersquore focusing on sports bras A poorly fitting sports bra can impact how a player moves It will affect how comfortable and confident a player can be

Like menstruation it can be a tricky topic for coaches to discuss with

Issue 004 May 2021

players I spoke to Dr Nicola Brown on how to get the right fit of sports bra Dr Brown is working for St Marys University and conducts research into bras and education around breast health As well as education on the right fit of bra she discusses how clubs and coaches can pass this message to players

One way to do this is by placing a poster up in the changing room This ensures players understand what fit is right for them as itrsquos different depending on their cup size Wersquove made this even easier for our Womenrsquos Rugby Coaching subscribers by producing a poster that you can print out and display in the changing rooms at your club It contains the information Dr Brown discusses in her article in a way thatrsquos easy to read and understand

It will hopefully serve as a good conversation starter for players on finding the right fit for them It will also prompt them to learn more and make sure theyrsquore safe and ready for rugby

How comfortable someone feels in an environment will also impact whether they turn up to try rugby

I spoke to Zainab Alema a black Muslim rugby player mother and nurse on how to ensure a training session is a welcoming environment for everybody We discussed how rugby clubs can promote their sport to people who wouldnrsquot normally pick up a rugby ball

Rugby prides itself on being a sport for everyone I truly believe that having a message that a sport is for everyone no matter their shape or size is empowering However rugby can do more to make sure more people receive that message Whether itrsquos working with different organisations to deliver rugby in community programs having the club colours on a sports hijab for any female Muslim player to wear as part of their rugby kit or including social events that arenrsquot focused on drinking

As coaches and club members we have the ability to involve more people in rugby We can help break down some of the barriers that prevent people from trying and falling in love with the sport

Womens Rugby Coaching is part of Rugby Coach Weekly website and weekly digital magazine which offers proven easy to use rugby drills coaching sessions practice plans training games warm-ups tips and advice The resources are created for the grassroots coach following best practice from around the world and insights from the professional game

Womens Rugby Coaching is published by Green Star Media Ltd

Womens Editor Jess Bunyard

Consultant EditorLiza Burgess

Head of Rugby Dan Cottrell

Pictures Reuters Media ExpressOmega Photography

Production Green Star Media Ltd

Customer servicessupportrugbycoachweeklynet

Managing Director Kevin Barrow

(c) Green Star Media Ltd All rights reserved Click here to read the full disclaimer Cover picture Zainab Alema(Photo Jack Tompkins)

To subscribe to Womens Rugby Coachinggo to Womensrugbycoachingcomor subscribe online here

2

Break down barriers across all the game

Jess Bunyard


Zainab Alema mother nurse rugby player


Getting the right support P3Being aware of breast health and how to empower through educationCreate a positive post-match P6Engage players after a game to keep them coming back to a clubThe Bulldozer pushes boundaries P8Zainab Alema on being a Muslim rugby player and how clubs can open their doors to different communities 3 ways to use dice P12Add dice to your coaching toolbox to enhance players learningProtect and steal P13Two activities to help players work on their ruck positionsRapid fire touch P14Quick transition game Counter attack tennis P15 Tactical kicking and support

FROM THE EDITOR

THIS MONTHS CONTRIBUTORS

CONTENTS

Dr Nicola BrownAssociate Professor in Female Health at St Maryrsquos UniversityMichele AmosGirls coach coach mentor team manager at Basingstoke RFCVicki GreensmithChair of girls rugby and U18s team manager at Sandal RUFC

Zainab AlemaSunday Times Grassroots Sportswoman of the Year 2020Rob NicholCoached with London St Georges RFC in London and OntarioJames ClarkOwner of JSC and coaches with Gloucester DPP

Phot

o J

ack

Tom

kins

3

EQUIPMENT






















4

EQUIPMENT
































fit


activity




underband



5

EQUIPMENT





















5simple steps











Too small

Toobig




6

MANAGEMENT


















7

MANAGEMENT




















8

INTERVIEW





























belong hererdquo

Phot

o B

en P

eter

s

9

INTERVIEW






























10

INTERVIEW























Zee Alema instagram










accepted


Phot

o G

eoff

Pug

h


11

HOW TOSESSSIONS




Touchturnover

2 points

P12

P13

P15

P14





















3 ways to use dice

12

GAMES






















Protect and steal

13

RUCKS



and organisation




cones




different roles



Coach players


LARGE BOX

SMALL BOX










Rapid fire touch

14

GAMES


Touchturnover




now leaves the box


immediately defend













Kicking team






Receiving team







2 points


15

COUNTER ATTACK



catching confidence











3

EQUIPMENT






















4

EQUIPMENT
































fit


activity




underband



5

EQUIPMENT





















5simple steps











Too small

Toobig




6

MANAGEMENT


















7

MANAGEMENT




















8

INTERVIEW





























belong hererdquo

Phot

o B

en P

eter

s

9

INTERVIEW






























10

INTERVIEW























Zee Alema instagram










accepted


Phot

o G

eoff

Pug

h


11

HOW TOSESSSIONS




Touchturnover

2 points

P12

P13

P15

P14





















3 ways to use dice

12

GAMES






















Protect and steal

13

RUCKS



and organisation




cones




different roles



Coach players


LARGE BOX

SMALL BOX










Rapid fire touch

14

GAMES


Touchturnover




now leaves the box


immediately defend













Kicking team






Receiving team







2 points


15

COUNTER ATTACK



catching confidence











4

EQUIPMENT
































fit


activity




underband



5

EQUIPMENT





















5simple steps











Too small

Toobig




6

MANAGEMENT


















7

MANAGEMENT




















8

INTERVIEW





























belong hererdquo

Phot

o B

en P

eter

s

9

INTERVIEW






























10

INTERVIEW























Zee Alema instagram










accepted


Phot

o G

eoff

Pug

h


11

HOW TOSESSSIONS




Touchturnover

2 points

P12

P13

P15

P14





















3 ways to use dice

12

GAMES






















Protect and steal

13

RUCKS



and organisation




cones




different roles



Coach players


LARGE BOX

SMALL BOX










Rapid fire touch

14

GAMES


Touchturnover




now leaves the box


immediately defend













Kicking team






Receiving team







2 points


15

COUNTER ATTACK



catching confidence











5

EQUIPMENT





















5simple steps











Too small

Toobig




6

MANAGEMENT


















7

MANAGEMENT




















8

INTERVIEW





























belong hererdquo

Phot

o B

en P

eter

s

9

INTERVIEW






























10

INTERVIEW























Zee Alema instagram










accepted


Phot

o G

eoff

Pug

h


11

HOW TOSESSSIONS




Touchturnover

2 points

P12

P13

P15

P14





















3 ways to use dice

12

GAMES






















Protect and steal

13

RUCKS



and organisation




cones




different roles



Coach players


LARGE BOX

SMALL BOX










Rapid fire touch

14

GAMES


Touchturnover




now leaves the box


immediately defend













Kicking team






Receiving team







2 points


15

COUNTER ATTACK



catching confidence











6

MANAGEMENT


















7

MANAGEMENT




















8

INTERVIEW





























belong hererdquo

Phot

o B

en P

eter

s

9

INTERVIEW






























10

INTERVIEW























Zee Alema instagram










accepted


Phot

o G

eoff

Pug

h


11

HOW TOSESSSIONS




Touchturnover

2 points

P12

P13

P15

P14





















3 ways to use dice

12

GAMES






















Protect and steal

13

RUCKS



and organisation




cones




different roles



Coach players


LARGE BOX

SMALL BOX










Rapid fire touch

14

GAMES


Touchturnover




now leaves the box


immediately defend













Kicking team






Receiving team







2 points


15

COUNTER ATTACK



catching confidence











7

MANAGEMENT




















8

INTERVIEW





























belong hererdquo

Phot

o B

en P

eter

s

9

INTERVIEW






























10

INTERVIEW























Zee Alema instagram










accepted


Phot

o G

eoff

Pug

h


11

HOW TOSESSSIONS




Touchturnover

2 points

P12

P13

P15

P14





















3 ways to use dice

12

GAMES






















Protect and steal

13

RUCKS



and organisation




cones




different roles



Coach players


LARGE BOX

SMALL BOX










Rapid fire touch

14

GAMES


Touchturnover




now leaves the box


immediately defend













Kicking team






Receiving team







2 points


15

COUNTER ATTACK



catching confidence











8

INTERVIEW





























belong hererdquo

Phot

o B

en P

eter

s

9

INTERVIEW






























10

INTERVIEW























Zee Alema instagram










accepted


Phot

o G

eoff

Pug

h


11

HOW TOSESSSIONS




Touchturnover

2 points

P12

P13

P15

P14





















3 ways to use dice

12

GAMES






















Protect and steal

13

RUCKS



and organisation




cones




different roles



Coach players


LARGE BOX

SMALL BOX










Rapid fire touch

14

GAMES


Touchturnover




now leaves the box


immediately defend













Kicking team






Receiving team







2 points


15

COUNTER ATTACK



catching confidence











9

INTERVIEW






























10

INTERVIEW























Zee Alema instagram










accepted


Phot

o G

eoff

Pug

h


11

HOW TOSESSSIONS




Touchturnover

2 points

P12

P13

P15

P14





















3 ways to use dice

12

GAMES






















Protect and steal

13

RUCKS



and organisation




cones




different roles



Coach players


LARGE BOX

SMALL BOX










Rapid fire touch

14

GAMES


Touchturnover




now leaves the box


immediately defend













Kicking team






Receiving team







2 points


15

COUNTER ATTACK



catching confidence











10

INTERVIEW























Zee Alema instagram










accepted


Phot

o G

eoff

Pug

h


11

HOW TOSESSSIONS




Touchturnover

2 points

P12

P13

P15

P14





















3 ways to use dice

12

GAMES






















Protect and steal

13

RUCKS



and organisation




cones




different roles



Coach players


LARGE BOX

SMALL BOX










Rapid fire touch

14

GAMES


Touchturnover




now leaves the box


immediately defend













Kicking team






Receiving team







2 points


15

COUNTER ATTACK



catching confidence












11

HOW TOSESSSIONS




Touchturnover

2 points

P12

P13

P15

P14





















3 ways to use dice

12

GAMES






















Protect and steal

13

RUCKS



and organisation




cones




different roles



Coach players


LARGE BOX

SMALL BOX










Rapid fire touch

14

GAMES


Touchturnover




now leaves the box


immediately defend













Kicking team






Receiving team







2 points


15

COUNTER ATTACK



catching confidence



























3 ways to use dice

12

GAMES






















Protect and steal

13

RUCKS



and organisation




cones




different roles



Coach players


LARGE BOX

SMALL BOX










Rapid fire touch

14

GAMES


Touchturnover




now leaves the box


immediately defend













Kicking team






Receiving team







2 points


15

COUNTER ATTACK



catching confidence

























Protect and steal

13

RUCKS



and organisation




cones




different roles



Coach players


LARGE BOX

SMALL BOX










Rapid fire touch

14

GAMES


Touchturnover




now leaves the box


immediately defend













Kicking team






Receiving team







2 points


15

COUNTER ATTACK



catching confidence




















Rapid fire touch

14

GAMES


Touchturnover




now leaves the box


immediately defend













Kicking team






Receiving team







2 points


15

COUNTER ATTACK



catching confidence

















Kicking team






Receiving team







2 points


15

COUNTER ATTACK



catching confidence











women's rugby coaching

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