GAME DEVELOPMENT

COACH EDUCATION
VOLUME TWO
CONTENTS
1.0 COACHING - WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT 2
2.0 SKILL DEVELOPMENT PROCESS 4
3.0 PRINCIPLES OF DEFENCE 6
4.0 PRINCIPLES OF ATTACK 7
5.0 SPECIFIC PLAYER REQUIREMENTS 9
6.0 NATIONAL CODE OF CONDUCT 11
7.0 NATIONAL PLAY SAFE CODE 12
8.0 COACHING ACCREDITATION 12
9.0 MINI, MOD & INTERNATIONAL RULES 13
10.0 GAME DEVELOPMENT STAFF 13

1 Coach Education Game Development

1.0 COACHING - WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT
Rugby League experiences a participant churn rate (participants who leave the game) of over 30%
(Pathways Review 2010-2015) on an annual basis, this is more than double the national sporting
average.

Evidence has now proven that a participant’s experience with their club, and in particular their coach,
plays a pivotal role in their future involvement in Rugby League.

The main issue negatively impacting on the game’s retention rate is the experience a participant and
their parents have with their coach.

A clubs culture and level of professionalism also play a significant role in a Clubs ability to retain
players from one year to the next.

Coaching is not about the winning. Period.

It’s about creating a positive environment and teaching players how to achieve success.

It’s about being in the game, striving to be your best and using every moment as an opportunity to
optimize the potential of your players.

It’s about making your players better people.

Want your team to execute? Then teach them the process.

Teach them to never give up, teach them how to get stronger/faster/fitter, teach them the technical
skills that they will require to compete.

Teach them about the importance of respect, commitment and punctuality….

It’s the process that is important, not the result.

An easy process for all coaches to follow is - ENJOY, DEVELOP, COMPETE.

These three areas of coaching are the foundation of why people play sport and ultimately it is YOU,
the coach that controls this process for the player.

ENJOY- You control the one thing your players love to do, play Rugby League.
Your players must enjoy the experience from the moment they arrive at training to the time they finish
playing on the weekend. This environment is created through variation at training, communication,
games and being with their friends. Fun & enjoyment should be the main motivation to play, when
they stop enjoying
the experience, they will stop playing the sport.

DEVELOP- Players want to develop and improve their skills. For them to do this, you will require
knowledge. This will enable them to get better at the game they are playing and will also increases
their confidence. Another motivating factor that keeps them playing sport. The coach should also
be assisting with the development of the player’s character off the field as well. The coach controls
the one thing that the player loves to do, play sport. If you control the team, then you can control
behaviour.

COMPETE- Teach your players to always give their best effort, regardless of their ability and the result
on the scoreboard. Teach them to compete, this will give them the best chance of reaching their
potential and also teach them about work ethic and the importance of perseverance and overcoming
setbacks.

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Challenging players to actualise their full potential and providing them with the knowledge and skill
set to achieve this, is vitally important. Very few players will ever get the opportunity to have a career
playing sport, so we must use sport as the vehicle to teach players the process of how to succeed.
If we teach them this process, it is more likely to translate into other areas of their life, whether that’s
playing in the NRL or gaining employment in another field.

Success comes to those who have a Dream, Believe that they can achieve it, Learn the Process and
Work Hard. It’s that simple.

Process will always be the primary ingredient to coaching, it is what drives many of our games most
respected coaches and ultimately should underpin your philosophy as a Coach.

“ SUCCESS IS THAT PEACE OF

MIND, WHICH IS THE DIRECT
RESULT OF KNOWING THAT YOU
DID YOUR BEST TO BECOME THE
BEST THAT YOU ARE CAPABLE
OF BECOMING
JOHN WOODEN
“
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2.0 SKILL DEVELOPMENT PROCESS

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5 Coach Education Game Development
3.0 PRINCIPLES OF DEFENCE

3.1 SETTING UP THE DEFENSIVE LINE

1. Ball carrier on the ground
2. Markers
3. Tight spots
4. Set short side numbers
5. Organise long side
6. Line speed and direction

3.2 DEFENSIVE TECHNIQUE

• Technique - How good is your tackle technique? Learn it and practice
• The space between you & the person on your inside is your Domain
• Off line square – forward straight ahead off the line, outside foot up from Play The Ball (PTB)
• Dominance in the tackle – know your roles?- Make the tackle
• Ground work: Learn how to peel ( legs off first ) correctly controlling the speed of the ruck
• Looking in Front – most players only concentrate on the PTB
• Have them look up in-front & adjust. The PTB doesn’t move…

3.3 MARKER DEFENCE

THE CORE (B to B DEFENCE)
1. Plug / Secure the middle or the Ruck
2. Tie in – Solid line
3. Work rate – Double
4. Kick pressure – 5th Tackle pressure CALL
( 1st Marker & “A” pressure the kicker )

3.4 FIRST MARKER

• To predict the direction of the ball (verbal & pointing)
• First movement lateral, don’t move until the ball has left
• If the ball goes the other way tie-in & talk to the other marker

3.5 SECOND MARKER

• Take a small step to cover other side of ruck
• Then moves to tie-in/plug the inside of the first marker
• Talk to first Markers back “I’m tie-ing in”

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3.6 MARKER DEFENCE
• Communicate from ground up – BE VERBAL
• When MARKERS are set ( second M push the rump of first M)
• Keep your distance – do not engage physically or verbally
• Do not go past the ball – keep it on your outside
• Tie in with A defenders / do not cross over
• “A” defender ( tight ) no wider than two metres from PTB

3.7 THE CORE (B to B DEFENCE)

• Straight line always – up as quick as slowest person
• Communicate
• Don’t go up past inside defender unless you can stop the ball
• Don’t go past the ball. Always keep the ball in front & inside you
• When defending on your line, must get off quickly….
• When on back foot up & hold e.g. Quick PTB or Man Down
• After a break stand & wait
• After offload, hold line at the advantage line

4.0 PRINCIPLES OF ATTACK

KEEP IT SIMPLE

4.1 CORE SKILL

Attacking in Rugby League at any level requires it’s players to be competent in the Fundamental
Core Skills such as GRIP, CATCH & PASS and DRAW & PASS (two-v-one) (two-vtwo). It is these
skills that will give your players the ability to execute more advanced structures under pressure
and Attacking Principles cannot be introduced until your players have a solid grounding in these
fundamentals.

4.2 POSSESSION
A key focus for every Rugby League team is possession of the ball, as without it, a team cannot
attack, compete or score points. Coaches and Teams need to focus on these key principles;

Winning The Ball - (Defence & Pressure)

Defence - Line Speed, Contact, Controlling the Ruck, 5th Tackle Pressure.
Pressure - Disciplined execution (quality not quantity), keep applying pressure through Support
Play, Repeat Sets, Turnovers. You don’t have to score on every play.

Keeping The Ball - You can’t compete without the ball. An ability to execute basic skills and
understand the rules.

Using The Ball - Understanding the importance of Possession, Shape and Structure.

4.3 FIELD POSITION

Key sections of the field that the attacking teams can execute its plays from;

Example:

Left – Always Our Left (O/L)

10m corridor about halfway way between corner post & centre of goal posts.

Right – Always Our Right (O/R)

Similar corridor on our RIGHT (O/R)

Middle – Middle of the Field

The Area between the Goal Posts

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4.4 MOMENTUM
Quick Play The Balls - Attack up Tempo, Effect the oppositions Defence and Communication.

Direct - Getting the 9 up on the advantage line as much as possible, last movements straight.

4.5 SHAPE/STRUCTURE
Shape and Structure are critical for a team’s ability to attack, so teaching your players to
understanding these key components, will ultimately improve your team’s effectiveness to attack
and your individual player’s ability to execute attacking sets under pressure.

Coaches should use their own initiative and feel a freedom to coach what they feel works with
Shape and Structure but effectively Shape/Structure is teaching your players where to stand in
anticipation of the next movement or play after each Play the Ball (PTB) and also what lines to run
when attacking down the field. (Ruck Plays, Attacking sets at the try line, second phase play, etc.)

4.6 SUPPORT
Players - Playing with width and pushing up on the ball in support, in order to spread defence.

Off the Ball - Good off the ball width and running, makes it very difficult for defence to commit
numbers to each tackle.

4.7 LAST TACKLE OPTIONS

Finishing your sets positively, to mount pressure or score points.

• Good Ball - attacking the line

When to run or kick? So that the result is try, repeat set or turnover close to the tryline.

• Danger Ball - coming off your try line

Tackled - Don’t get tackled on the last play and give away possession in this area of the field.

Kick Placement and Length - some examples include, positioning of the kick as to move the back
3 of the opposition, ball in play to mount pressure, kicking at the advantage line to get maximum
distance.

4.8 KICK CHASE

“A kick is only as good as it’s chase”

Discipline and applying pressure through your kick requires all players to get on board and allows
you to maintain good field possession. You must train for this.

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5.0 SPECIFIC PLAYER REQUIREMENTS
5.1 FULLBACK
Attack:
Highly skilled and agile, with a safe set of hands, an ability to attack in broken play and a good kick
return. Extremely high work rate so that after choosing where and when to come into the back line
and/or run or pass for attacking raids, the player can regroup and attack on more than one occasion
in the set. This involves a lot of unrewarded efforts covering lots of kms. Good space awareness is
required with the ability to produce a quick PTB. Very strong communication skills.

Defence:
The Fullback is the last line of defence, he must have a good foundation for defensive technique,
good communication skills and be an additional set of eyes, to organise the defensive line of his
team. It is important for the Fullback to follow the ball across the field, staying just inside the footy
as to switch directions if needed. Tackle timing and tackle selection very important. As is kicker
awareness, who – when – where.

5.2 WING
Attack:
Speed, size, strength and agility are all ideal assets of great Wingers. The Winger must have an
understanding with his Centre, be aware of the sideline and have the commitment and ability to score
tries. Wingers must have a willingness to look for extra work (relief rucks coming out of trouble) and
pull off the ball to utilize the full width of the field. Wingers must have the ability to jump and catch
under pressure in both attack and defence, as to either score tries or diffuse cross-field kicks. Strong
kick return with the ability to not get dominated, win plays 1 and 2 to get sets off to a good start.

Defence:
Wingers have faith in their inside man, knowing when to slide, wedge or stay on their opposing
Winger. Positional play for kicks is important, especially late in the tackle count. It is also important
that your wingers are good communicators and have a reasonable understanding of the Centre inside
them and the way in which that player defends. Strong 1 on 1 tackle technique, hit and stick.

5.3 CENTRE
Attack:
Similar to a Wingers, speed, size, strength and agility are ideal attributes. A Centre ideally has good
catch pass and draw pass skills, knowing when to promote the ball to his support and when to run.
Centres will need to be sound at running lines, putting themselves in the right hole at the right time
for their ball player. Evasion/Tempo

Defence:
Ability to read attacking situations (numbers) eg: slide, wedge or retreat and wait for numbers.
Centres are effective 1 on 1 defenders and have good communication skills. Dictate compression,
read offense from outside in.

5.4 HALF / FIVE-EIGHTH

Attack:
Highly skilled players who have the ability to play within a structure as well as knowing when to
look up and play what is in front of them. These players have excellent catch pass, draw pass and
decision making skills under pressure. Halves are confident players with good communication skills
and the ability to execute the correct plays at the right times. Highly competent kicking skills are also
an important asset for good Halves.

Defence:
Ideally, these players are strong 1 on 1 defenders, good communicators and have the ability to read
numbers and lock the football up when defending the line.

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5.5 LOCK
Attack:
A versatile position, that can be used as a hit up forward, running forward or a five-eighth type role.
These players should be reasonably agile, have good catch pass and draw pass skills and be strong
communicators. Ideally your Lock would have a high work rate, follow the ball, back up the ball carrier
and have the ability to offload or pass at the line if required.

Defence:
Solid 1 on 1 defender, that has a willingness to do a little bit extra in defence. Effective technical
defender with good communication skills and the ability to make the correct decisions at the right
time.

5.6 SECOND ROW (EDGE FORWARD)

Attack:
Tough player, with a strong running game and the ability to offload and run a line for a ball player.
These players generally have a great work ethic. Leg speed/drive.

Defence:
A workaholic in defence, with the ability to count numbers, make the 1 on 1’s and lock up the football
when required. Tackle selection, high / low / ball and all.

5.7 HOOKER
Attack:
The general of the forward pack, highly skilled in the technical elements of catch pass and draw
pass, with a good kicking game and the ability to provide good quick service from dummy half. These
players have an extremely high work rate, display good vision and know when to pass or run as to not
put pressure on the ball receivers with poor decision making.

Defence:
Extremely effective defenders, who normally make up what they lack in size, with courage. These
players are technically very good defenders, with a high work rate and a desire to make contact no
matter what the size of the opposition. They will generally need a very high level of fitness and lead
the kick chase.

5.8 FRONT ROW

Attack:
Size, strength and aggression are all key components of a good Front Rower. A willingness to compete,
these players have a strong work ethic, and are both physically and mentally tough. They will require a
relatively high fitness base to carry out a heavy and intense work load. Modern Front Rowers possess
the ability to offload and pass before the line, however not all front rowers may be required to carry
out this role in your team. Find their front with quality PTB, support and reload in yardage.

Defence:
Aggressive, intimidating players with sound technical ability and confidence to make 1 on 1 tackles.
The front rower will set the benchmark for your teams line speed, energy and ability to slow the play
and ball down. Also tackle selection in group tackles.

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6.0 NATIONAL CODE OF CONDUCT
6.1 INTRODUCTION
The Rugby League Code of Conduct provides all participants – players, parents, coaches, referees,
spectators and officials – with some simple rules that assist in delivering a safe and positive environment
for everyone involved in the game.

Within that safe environment, every Rugby League participant has the best chance to enjoy the
game. By accepting the standards of behaviour in the Code, we provide opportunities for young boys
and girls to grow on the field – we build good players, good citizens and good communities in which
Rugby League is a social asset.

I strongly recommend that everyone connected with Rugby League adopts these rules as an essential
part of the way they contribute to our great game.

6.2 CODE OF CONDUCT – PLAYER

• Be a good sport. Respect all good play whether from your team or the opposition and shake
hands with and thank, the opposition players and officials after the game – win, lose or draw
• Participate for your own enjoyment and benefit
• Always respect the referee’s decision
• Never become involved in acts of foul play
• Honour both the spirit and letter of the competition rules and live up to the highest ideals of ethics
and sportsmanship; avoid gamesmanship, and respect the traditions of the game
• Never engage in disrespectful conduct of any sort including profanity, sledging, obscene gestures,
offensive remarks, trash-talking, taunting or other actions that are demeaning to other players,
officials or supporters
• Care for and respect the facilities and equipment made available to you during training and
competition
• Safeguard our health; don’t use any illegal or unhealthy substances
• Recognise that many officials, coaches and referees are volunteers who give up their time to
provide their services. Treat them with the utmost respect
• Do not bet or otherwise financially speculate, directly or indirectly, on the outcome or any other
aspect of a Rugby League match or competition in which you are involved

6.3 CODE OF CONDUCT – COACH

• Actively discourage foul play and/or unsportsmanlike behaviour by players
• Seek to maximise the participation and enjoyment of all players regardless of ability; avoid the
tendency to over-use a talented player; treat all players as equals, regardless of their talent
• Show concern and caution towards all sick and injured players. Follow the advice of a physician
and/or sports trainer to the letter when determining when an injured player is ready to commence
training or playing
• Teach players that an honest effort and competing to the best of their ability is as important as
victory
• Maintain appropriate, professional relationships with players at all times
• Maintain a thorough knowledge of the Laws of the Game and keep abreast of current coaching
methods; maintain or improve your current accreditation level
• Always consider the health, safety and welfare of the players at all times
• Teach young players to realise that there is a big gap between their play and the professional
game; do not coach them as if they are professionals
• Ensure that your coaching reflects the level of the competition being played; do not be a ‘win-at-
all-cost’ coach
• As coach, conduct yourself at all times in a manner, and in all situations that shows leadership,
respect for the game of Rugby League and respect for all those that are involved in the game – the
players, officials, the fans, the parents, the referees and the media

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7.0 NATIONAL PLAY SAFE CODE
INTRODUCTION
The Safeplay Code was developed to emphasise safety and good conduct within the game of Rugby
League by creating the best possible on-field environment and actively controlling undesirable
actions. It applies to all players up to and including the Under 15 years age group.

NATIONAL SAFE PLAY CODE

www.playnrl.com/safeplay-code/

8.0 COACHING ACCREDITATION

What is the Rugby League National Coaching Accreditation Scheme?
The National Coaching Accreditation Scheme is endorsed by the Australian Sports Commission
and aims to ensure that all Rugby League coaches receive both essential and beneficial educational
opportunities.

Why do I need an accreditation to coach a Rugby League team?

Coaching Accreditation is compulsory for all Rugby League coaches in Australia, regardless of
what age or level you are coaching at. It is essential that new coaches gain a basic understanding
of how to coach, different stages of learning and development, safety considerations, as well as the
core skills, tactics and laws of the game prior to taking on the role of a coach.

Who needs a Coaching Accreditation?

Regardless of what age or level you intend on coaching, you will be required to gain a Coaching
Accreditation as per National Rugby League (NRL) policy.

The following coach education courses must be completed under NRL policy:
• Modified Games Coaching Course (6-12 Years)
• International Games Coaching Course (13+ Years)
• Senior Club Coaching Course (18+ Years)

NB. If you are coaching a senior team (18+) and are the head coach, coaching coordinator or top
level (senior) coach with 2 or more senior grades, we would advise you to complete the Senior Club
Coaching Course.

How long does my accreditation last for?

Your Accreditation has an expiry date – of four years from its date of issue. At that time, you
must update your accreditation in order to continue coaching. Of course, if you should upgrade
your accreditation to a higher level at any time during those four years, then the expiry date re-
commences from the date of issue of the updated accreditation.

The expiry date is clearly shown on the accreditation certificate issued to all coaches upon
accreditation.

For further information on coach accreditation requirements please visit playnrl.com

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9.0 MINI, MOD & INTERNATIONAL RULES
After more than 5 years of research, the rules governing the game in the Mini & Mod age groups
(5-12yo) were adjusted for the start of the 2015 season. The introduction of these rule changes has
had a positive impact on the Rugby League experience for kids competing in these age groups and
are designed to create a more inclusive and enjoyable environment. The rules governing the game
in the Mini & Mod age groups can be accessed through the following link:

Mini & Mod Rules - 6-12’s and International Rules - 13’s +

Visit playnrl.com/juniorleague to find out more about your specific age division

10.0 GAME DEVELOPMENT STAFF

Paul Dyer
Game Development Manager
paul.dyer@broncos.com.au

Michael Hancock
Game Development - Brisbane South
mhancock@greenbankrsl.com.au

Michael De Vere
Game Development - Brisbane East
michael.devere@carinaleagues.com.au

Darren Burns
Game Development - Gympie/Dalby
Darren.Burns@broncos.com.au

David Stagg
Game Development - Brisbane North
david@aspleyleaguesclub.com.au

Wayne Weekes
Game Development - Brisbane West
wayne.weekes@aranaleagues.com.au

Jack Reed
Game Development - Sunshine Coast

“
“
jack.reed@broncos.com.au

Casey McGuire
Game Development - Central Queensland
casey.mcguire@site.edu.au

AS A COACH ASK YOURSELF, ARE YOU

TRYING TO IMPRESS THEM OR ARE
YOU TRYING TO IMPROVE THEM?
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COACHING NOTES

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