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Mum first coach

So what do you do?

You don’t need to be an expert to head to the backyard or the park and pass, catch and kick a rugby ball around. You just need a ball, a bit of time and some enthusiasm.

Try this each week. Instead of asking “How was practice?”, ask “What do we want to work on this week?”

Suggested format

  • Time: two sessions of 20 minutes a week.
  • Equipment: one rugby ball.
  • Venue: backyard or park.
  • Skills: pass, catch and kick.

Key messages for parents and caregivers

  • Games are a chance to see progress and celebrate learning a new skill.
  • Success isn’t the score. It’s personal improvement.
  • Let tamariki try lots of positions. Don’t decide where they play based on their size.
  • Shout encouragement. Keep feedback quiet, calm and one-on-one.
  • Enjoy learning the game together.
  • If your child loses interest in your coaching, don’t lose interest in them.

10 simple things to remember when teaching a skill

  1. You’re the parent first. Keep it fun and keep your relationship strong.
  2. Think long term. Skills take time. Pick one skill and work on it until it clicks before moving on.
  3. Break it down. Split a skill into two or three key points. Start simple and slow, then build up to game speed.
  4. Show them. Not sure how a skill looks? Find videos and activities on Rugby Toolbox.
  5. Use the same words. Keep your cues short and consistent, like “hands up” or “soft hands”.
  6. Praise as you go. Notice what they do well and tell them.
  7. They’re a kid, not a mini All Black or Black Fern. Keep expectations realistic.
  8. Check in. Ask them what they enjoyed and what they want to try next.
  9. One thing at a time. Correct only one point at a time, or it gets confusing.
  10. Make it fun. Turn it into a game or a challenge. If they’re having fun, they’ll want to come back.